[Search for users] [Overall Top Noters] [List of all Conferences] [Download this site]

Conference 7.286::home_work

Title:Home_work
Notice:Check Directory (6.3) before writing a new note
Moderator:CSLALL::NASEAM::READIO
Created:Tue Nov 05 1991
Last Modified:Fri Jun 06 1997
Last Successful Update:Fri Jun 06 1997
Number of topics:2100
Total number of notes:78741

403.0. "Spag's???" by GLIVET::BUFORD () Tue Jul 22 1986 13:27

    Where is Spag's?  I've seen references to the place several times now.
    I tried using DIR/ALL/TITLE="Spag" but that only yields replies that
    say what a great place it is, not its location.
    
    
    Lost in NH,
    John B. 
T.RTitleUserPersonal
Name
DateLines
403.1NO BAGS SPAG'SOFFRT9::NLOCSINTue Jul 22 1986 13:522
    SPAG'S IS ON RT. 9 IN SHREWSBURY. ABOUT 3 MI. ON THE RIGHT AFTER
    TOWN LINE GOING WEST ON RT.9. BRING CASH.
403.2From NHBEING::WEISSForty-TwoTue Jul 22 1986 14:277
The quickest way from NH - Go down RT 495 to RT 290.  Get off of RT 290 at exit 
22, and turn left at the bottom of the ramp.  In about a mile you'll come to a 
stop light.  Take a right there.  Spags is on the corner of that road and RT 9.

Bring more cash than you think you can possibly spend.

Paul
403.3enter the maelstromLATOUR::KILGOREWild BillTue Jul 22 1986 15:425
    Mi-gawd, someoen who doesn't know where SPAG'S is!    ;-)
    
    Bring more cash than that, and something in which to carry your
    posessions. Leave behind or kiss goodbye small children and the old
    and infirm.
403.4spagsAVANTI::FINGERHUTTue Jul 22 1986 17:364
    Spags has a baybanks xpress 24 and some other machines.  I usually
    gather up all the stuff I want to buy, hide it somewhere, then go
    get enough money.
    
403.5Old School AnnexMELODY::HAFFNERTue Jul 22 1986 19:486
      	There are at least three buildings to choose from.  The "main"
    building on Rt. 9 has the hardware, paint, lighting fixtures & a
    million other items from peanut butter to shoes.  However, the large
    power tools (table saws, bandsaws, planers etc.) are in the 
    "Old Schoolhouse Annex" up the hill past the fire station.  Have
    fun and enjoy!
403.6Even Spags Has Sales!JACOB::GINGERWed Jul 23 1986 02:4313
    Up in the Olde Shcoolhouse, where all the really neat tools are,
    is a box with a little sign that says something like 'contractors
    drop your card here to get on our mailing list for special sales.'
    I dropped in my 'boatbuilder' card and get a mailer every couple
    months. Most of the sales are really good stuff! 
    
    I dont know if
    a DEC business card would work, but at the instant print shops
    business cards are cheap and having a card that says something about
    professional and builder never hurts when yoyu are trying to chisel
    down the price at your friendly lumber or tools store.
    
    Ron 'Building and Repair of Fine Wood Boats' Ginger
403.7AUTHOR::WELLCOMEWed Jul 23 1986 11:5417
    Re: .2
    The "right at the stoplight" is onto "Old MIll Road."  Further down
    Old Mill Road the road forks left and right immediately after crossing
    a small stream, with a pond on the left; bear RIGHT at that point.
    
    I'd ammend the "Bring more cash than you think you could possibly
    need" to "Bring no more cash than you can afford to spend."  Especially
    for a first-time visitor, Spag's fever can be overwhelming.  A couple
    friends of mine went to Spag's for the first time and ended up pulling
    out the seats of their car looking for lost change.  As time goes
    on, you become somewhat immune, but it's always pretty amazing.
    
    Beware: although there are lots of good deals, there are also many
    things that are NOT good deals.  You do need to retain some traces
    of price awareness and sanity when buying stuff at Spag's.
    
    Steve
403.8VIKING::GALLAGHERThu Jul 24 1986 11:584
    
    RE: .4  they have ATM's ay?  Not too dumb for an old time store
    that was known for "Spags gives no bags" and whatever you pick up,
    good ole American "cash on the barrelhead."  ..>
403.9RENKO::JOHNSONPeter JohnsonThu Jul 24 1986 12:249
    
>    RE: .4  they have ATM's ay?  Not too dumb for an old time store
>    that was known for "Spags gives no bags" and whatever you pick up,
>    good ole American "cash on the barrelhead."  ..>



Er.... you mean not to dumb for the banks to provide such a needed
commodity for all you spagaholics.
403.10FURILO::BLESSLEYLive from Marlboro, MA, USAThu Jul 24 1986 12:447
There's only one ATM "The Green Machine" on Spags' property - but there's
two (maybe three) nearby - the ones I know are Bay Bank (next to main building)
, and Shawmut (across Rt 9).

A word about pricing at Spags - I've seen 'em write one price on a can, 
immediately cross it out, and write a lower one in, as if the price had been 
"lowered". I haven't decided whether this is sleazy or just clever...
403.11For the first-timerBEING::WEISSForty-TwoThu Jul 24 1986 12:5773
I was reflecting on how long it took me to learn where everything is in Spag's, 
and it occurred to me that a map might be useful for someone who hasn't been 
before.  So I made one.  It's not to scale, and it doesn't include everything,
but it's a start.  If you can't find it, ask.  You may be surprised at where it 
is.  Like mailboxes are hanging on the wall over the pet supplies, and dowling 
jigs are sold at the fishing and hunting counter.

Good luck!

**********************************************************
*         1               2            3           4     *
*                                                        *
*                              5                       6 *
*                                                        *
*                                                        *
* 7                                                      *
*                                                        *
*                                                        *
*                                                        *              ************************************************************
*                                                  15    *              *          35             37           38                  /
*                                                        *              *                                                ***********
*                       * 8   9   11  12  14             *              *                                 39                      X*
*                       *                                *              *                                                          *
*                       *     10          13             *              * 34                                                      X*
*                 17    *                                *              *                                                          *
*                       **********                   18  *              *                    36                                    *
*                       *        *                       *              *                                                          *
*      16               *        *                       ****************                                                          *
*                       *        *   20                  25   26  27   28                                                          *
*                       **********                                                                                                 *
*                       *                                29    30                                                                  *
*                       *   19   21                                                                              43                *
*         X X X X       *                                31    32   33                                                    40       *
*************************              22                ****************                                                          *
            ^           *     23                         *              *                    44                                    *
            |           *                                *              *                                                          *
      These checkout    *                                *              *                                                          *
     counters are the   *             24                 *              *                                                          *
       least crowded    *                              * *              * 41                                                       *
                        *                              * *              *                                                          *
                        *    X  X  X  X  X  X  X  X    * *              *                       42                                 *
                        ********************************/*              ************************************************************

1  Paper towels, garbage bags					31 Pets, mailboxes
2  Canned goods							32 Paint brushes
3  Spices							33 Glue
4  Sports rackets						34 Power tools
5  Furniture							35 Hand tools
6  Stationary							36 Hardware
7  Gardening/Yard tools						37 Fishing/hunting
8  Camping							38 Photo/watches/jewelry
9  Grandfather clocks						39 Gloves
10 Oriental rugs						40 Kitchen
11 TV, telephone						41 Wood finishing
12 Gas grills, coolers, wood stoves				42 Shoes
13 Luggage							43 Radios
14 Large cooking utensils, alum. foil, food bags		44 Clothes
15 Toys/games							/  Entrance
16 Automotive							X  Check out counter
17 Dairy/meat
18 Electric/lighting
19 Plumbing							At the Schoolhouse:
20 Household cleaners						
21 Golf								Power tools
22 Gardening supplies						Furniture
23 Birdseed							Clothes
24 Food								Plumbing fixtures
25 Rope, extension cords, vitamins				Baby stuff
26 Vacuum cleaners
27 Paint supplies						Also note that there's a garden shop, and that they often have
28 Sandpaper							a tent set up in the parking lot with random items on sale.
29 Baseball/basketball/football
30 Soap/shampoo/toothpaste/etc.
403.12AUTHOR::WELLCOMEThu Jul 24 1986 13:589
    RE: .2
    
    It's exit 22N off route 290 - signs say, 
    
    		 TO  [70]
    		Shrewsbury
    		Worcester
    
    
403.13RENKO::JOHNSONPeter JohnsonFri Jul 25 1986 12:334
re: 11

Come on - you must know by now that anything you can't find must be
in fish and tackle ..... :^)
403.14PAPPAS::JIMJim PappasSun Jul 27 1986 17:397
    An example of a well thought out floor plan:
    
    If you are looking for drywall screwgun bits, they are located in
    a tin can behind the typewriter display at the end of the fishing
    counter.  39 cents each.
    
    Jim Pappas
403.15FURILO::JOHNSONPeter JohnsonMon Jul 28 1986 12:3717
< Note 255.14 by PAPPAS::JIM "Jim Pappas" >
                                     -<  >-

>    An example of a well thought out floor plan:
    
>    If you are looking for drywall screwgun bits, they are located in
>    a tin can behind the typewriter display at the end of the fishing
>    counter.  39 cents each.
    
>    Jim Pappas




SEE

Everything that you can't find in Spags is in fish and tackle!!!
403.16What do you call a store with an unlisted number?DB::BEYERIt isn't a shim if you can't see itThu Aug 28 1986 19:154
    What are Spag's hours?  Are they open late Thursday?  At all on
    weekends?
    
    	HRB
403.17BEING::WEISSForty-TwoThu Aug 28 1986 19:573
I believe that they are open every night till 9, but closed Sunday

Paul
403.18Best hoursSVCRUS::KROLLFri Aug 29 1986 13:052
    The best hours to shop are between 4 & 6pm during the week.  The
    place is less conjested both inside and out.
403.19OLORIN::SEGERFri Aug 29 1986 17:297
worst time to go -- rainy days!

best times -- sporting events, especially if a boston team is playing!  I
		once went the night of the stanley cup playoffs (I'm not a
		hockey fan) and the place was deserted!!!

-mark
403.20Going for the FirstCHARON::LISTONTue Sep 02 1986 17:0811
         I am about to embark on my first visit to Spags towards the
    end of this week.  Curiousity has gotten the best of me.  One of
    the things I would like to check out is the brands and prices of
    band saws they sell.  Does anyone have any comments on their
    selection and price?  Also, does Spags accept checks as cash
    or only the truly green stuff from the mint?  Having never been
    there before I have to plan my trip to the bank if checks are
    out...
    
                                               Thanks,
                                               Kevin
403.21YEP FEDERAL RESERVE CASH onlyLEHIGH::OSTIGUYLloyd J. Ostiguy, DTN 289-1231Tue Sep 02 1986 17:496
    Only foldable green and no plastic either ! Real cash !
    
    ps Bring more than you plan to spend since you will spend more
       every time. Good luck, have fun !
    
    Lloyd
403.22not in main store...Q::ROSENBAUMRich RosenbaumTue Sep 02 1986 20:482
    ...and after spending 2 hours looking for the bandsaws, go up the
    hill to the little schoolhouse...
403.23PAPPAS::JIMJim PappasWed Sep 03 1986 01:4213
    When I first bought my house, I could not go into Spags without
    spending $100.  One day I figured that I would save some money and
    showed up with only $80.  I got to the register and sure enough,
    the bill was $100.  I put back something worth $20 and left feeling
    good.
    
    Well, the next day, I decided that I needed that $20 item and went back
    to pick it up.  Spent $100. 
    
    Now a days, I do not necessarily spend $100/visit.  It now almost
    always comes out to a $1/minute.
    
    Jim Pappas
403.24AUTHOR::WELLCOMEWed Sep 03 1986 15:059
    Like Minnestoa Fats: "Nothin' but CASH...."
    
    Although I overheard a clerk talking to somebody once, and I got
    the idea that it IS possible to pay by check if you get it approved
    in advance or something.  I've never done it, and I may have totally
    misinterpreted what was being talked about.  Easiest thing is to
    bring the green stuff.
    
    Steve    
403.25Greenbacks onlyBEING::WEISSForty-TwoWed Sep 03 1986 15:4413
>    Although I overheard a clerk talking to somebody once, and I got
>    the idea that it IS possible to pay by check if you get it approved
>    in advance or something.  

I'd be surprised.  If you look up, there are signs saying something to the 
effect that: "As of [some date in the early sixties] we will no longer accept 
checks of any kind.  This includes personal checks, business checks, government 
checks, bank checks, cashier's checks and money orders. Only cash will be 
accepted."

I'm not even sure they'll take travellers checks.

Paul
403.26Cash sources near Spag'sRENKO::BLESSLEYLive from Marlboro, MA, USAWed Sep 03 1986 19:1212
The good news is there FOUR banks with ATMs nearby (one on Spag's property!):

	- BayBank (next to Spag's on Rt 9)
	- WCIS (affiliated with the Cash network - you can use your DCU card)
	- Shawmut bank (across the street from Bay Bank i.e. on the south side
	   of Rt 9)
	- J Random Small Bank - "The Green Machine" is the name of their ATM.
 	  This one is on the edge of Spag's "Old School House"

May have been said before: Spag's is not ALWAYS a bargain. If you know what 
"reasonable" prices are for what you seek, you'll do well there. I'd stay out 
of the kitchen department in general, tho.
403.27Leave home without itNAC::BENCEThu Sep 11 1986 20:2610
    
    	RE: .25
    
    	They do NOT take traveller's checks.
    
    					{cathy}
    
    					who believes shopping at spag's
    					is an art form in of itself...
    
403.28What not to buy at SpagsGWEN::FINGERHUTFri Sep 12 1986 03:192
    Don't buy Alpo there.  It's cheaper at Heartland.
    
403.29bags at spagsECAD::SCHIPANIFri Sep 12 1986 10:2212
    Going there today and have what may be a silly question. Do you
    bring your own bags as I have heard?
    
    Need an ans before 9:00 am as our system is going down for the weekend.
    
    dtn 223 8072.
    
    thanks
    
    Gary
    
    Hey Rich did you find the band saws??
403.30AUTHOR::WELLCOMEFri Sep 12 1986 12:1313
    re: .29
    You CAN bring your own bags, but a true Spag's zealot knows where
    to find empty boxes when he gets there, and uses one of those.
    
    Actually, empty boxes are not too hard to find.  What you do is
    just wander around until you find one, or find one with only an
    item or two left in it that your can pile on the full boxes of
    that item underneath, and take that one.  There tends to be a box
    with empty boxes in it in the electrical department (generally
    poor-quality boxes though), a similar box in the tool department
    (sometimes good small boxes to be had there), and possibly behind
    the counter in the paint department.
    
403.31Bags?!?ECAD::SCHIPANITue Sep 16 1986 12:524
    re:.30 Did as you said. Boxes everywhere. Is an interesting place.
    Employees quite helpful. Found some excellent prices and some not
    so excellent ones. All in All, worth the trip. ($250 worth)
    Gary
403.32Spag's is a bagjobANCHOR::LEVESQUEWed Sep 17 1986 17:2717
    
    
      Just had to add my two cents worth!!
    I've lived near spags now for about twelve years and have yet to
    see great great prices. The only asset Spag's has is, it has it
    all. If you can find it. I know for a fact that Spag himself shops
    else where, to avoid the crowds.
    
    
    
    ps: just for kicks match the prices of items between Sears and Spags
    and you'll find that Sears charge is worth the eighteen percent.
    
    
                                              Happy shopping
    and remeber Spags live by the motto there's a sucker born every
    minute!!!
403.33shopping lists at 30 paces!NAC::SEGERWed Sep 17 1986 19:139
Sounds like a public challenge to me!  I don't know what you buy at spags
but I defy you to find a place where I can get cheaper electrical/plumbing
supplies!  I could get into point products as well such as Kitchen Cabinet
hardware, Kitchenaid Mixers, wheel barrows, garden hoses, oil filters, the 
list goes on for much too long for me to try and type it in...

Sure some of their stuff is no cheaper than elsewhere but MOST of it is!

-mark
403.34spagsRINGO::FINGERHUTWed Sep 17 1986 20:224
    I agree!!!  Give an example of where you can get electrical
    supplies cheaper than at spags.  Plumbing too.  Or Oregon
    chains for chainsaws.
    
403.35MAGGIE::MCGRATHWed Sep 17 1986 21:559
	Not to mention that Sears is the sleasiest outfit around.
	Check out the 80 some odd replies to the Sears note in 
	CONSUMER.

	Spags prices are typically what sale prices are elsewhere,
	only you don't have to wait for the sale.  And they have
	it all.

--ed/
403.36SEARS is really better?SYSENG::COULSONRoger CoulsonThu Sep 18 1986 14:435
    RE:.33
    
    Maybe we are all missing his point.  Could reply 33 be a 
    tongue-in-cheek comment?
    
403.37TISK TISK TISKANCHOR::LEVESQUEThu Sep 18 1986 14:4413
    
    
       Spag's is a desease and you folks can't help that I guess. But
    to answer all your comments. I have compared prices between the
    local hardware store and Spags, also Home centers and Spags and
    The Fair and Spags. The conclusion is still that Spags is a bag
    and that most of their junk is seconds!!!!! My brother is a contractor
    and says that quality is not a Spags specialty. Don't take offense
    just shop around and you'll recover from Spagmania.
    
    
    
                                         See ya at the Fair
403.38spagsRINGO::FINGERHUTThu Sep 18 1986 15:125
    But we're still waiting for specific examples of which electrical/
    plumbing supplies are seconds and where they are cheaper.  Where
    can I get a box of 14-2 wire for less than $14?  The price at
    my local hardware store is about $25 (Apple meadow in Townsend).
    
403.39I wouldn't shop at the Fair...CYGNUS::VHAMBURGERVic Hamburger IND-2/B4 262-8261Thu Sep 18 1986 16:2328
    Shop at the FAIR????? I have lived near the Fair/Spags for 10 years
    now and wouldn't be bothered by going to the Fair....totally
    unimpressed with goods/service/store/aroma in store, etc.....
    
    Yes, I bring cash and bags to Spags, have found them to have quality
    of goods ranging from poor to very good. If you know your name brand
    and price of that name brand, then I find they often have a price
    equal to, if not better than, the competition. Name brands?????
    I tend to shop for hardware stuff....Moore paint, Cuprinol, Black
    and Decker, Milwaukee tools and Makita are all top branded items
    and certainly good quality at good prices. Yes, other match the
    Spags price, but not all the time. I also have NEVER FOUND a store
    where everyone EVERYONE working on the floor, can be so happy to
    help you. I have never had a complaint in 10 years about the help
    at Spags, something I can't even say about McDonalds......And they
    really work at customer satisfaction.
    
    Spags also supports very nearly every charitable organization around
    in his local area. All ya gotta do is ask and he is ready to contribute
    whatever they can to help. Darn good community relations, if you
    ask me.
    
    You can overcharge me occasionally at Spags, but do it with a smile
    and I will keep coming back.......
    
    (kick soapbox out of way.....)
    
    /A happy Spagomaniac
403.40We all know Spags is great!MAXWEL::BROSNIHANBRIANThu Sep 18 1986 16:5710
       Come on now.... everyone knows Spag's is great! 95% of their
    products are top quality. The other 5% are seconds (clothes/shoes).
    The prices are lower than at any other store I have shopped, although
    some items may be priced the same. I have NEVER seen any item marked
    higher. Again, Spag has given more to charitable organizations than
    any merchant in his caliber. This is a Spags note, PLEEEEEEEEEEASE
    don't degrade it by mentioning Sears! (YUCK) I think I bought a
    battery there when I was in high school (young & unexperianced).
    
    another Spagamaniac
403.41Who wouldn't Give!!ANCHOR::LEVESQUEThu Sep 18 1986 17:397
    
    
    
      Didn't you people know charity contributions are a tax write off!!
    
    
                 JEEZ thanks Spags
403.42spagsRINGO::FINGERHUTThu Sep 18 1986 18:412
    Ok.  Now we KNOW you're not serious.
    
403.43educated consumers shop spags!!!!GUMDRP::PIERMARINISat Sep 20 1986 11:5218
    
    
       I cant understand why someone would say that spags is not a bargain!
    Maybe if your not an educated consumer. If you are than spags is
    it! you can be taken on occasion at spags on some items if you dont
    know what they sell for elsewhere, but this maybe happens about
    1% of the time. I shop spags almost weekly  and on a yearly
    basis i save close to 50% !!!! 
    
        I dont believe people still shop at sears!!! I haven't been
    there since i was taken one two seperate occasions  in 1979.
    if you exclude spags,K-mart has sears beat by miles. sears is 
    overpriced and they always give people a hard time when it comes
    to warranty service! and i've heard this from many people. sears
    will take a name brand product have it manufactured with thier name
    on it and sell it for about 20% more.  Please heed this warning
    and stay away from sears ...you'll be a richer person for it.
    
403.44JAWS::AUSTINTom Austin @UPO - Channels MarketingSat Sep 20 1986 17:1122
    Spag's is great, but there are some gotcha's.
         
    DON'T buy mechanics tools at Spag's unless they're a gag gift! The
    prices may be great, but, for example, the BUFFALO brand socket
    sets they sell are make of a special version of steel produced by
    alloying iron and buffalo chips! And their Great Neck sockets are
    slight seconds, i.e. a 7/16's socket won't always fit a (good) 7/16's
    nut. The SK tools are better but still no great bargain.
    
    Motor oil is cheap -- I buy CASTROL there sometimes, but if you
    watch for sales at Bradlees, it's cheaper there.
    
    Specialty light bulbs, like R20 spots, are 30 to 50% lower than
    anywhere else. And many generic electrical supplies are rock bottom
    price.
    
    Be careful. It's a great place to shop, but not blindly.
    
    And the charitable contributions may reduce taxes, but Spag IS TAKING
    MONEY OUT OF HIS OWN POCKET, AS WELL AS UNCLE SAM'S, WITH THE
    CONTRIBUTIONS. SO WHAT IF IT'S TAX DEDUCTABLE? IT DOES NOT REDUCE
    HIS TAXES DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR!
403.45attic vents?PYRITE::SCHNEIDERWed Sep 24 1986 17:305
    OK, Spagologists, can anyone tell me if They have round,
    insect-screened vents for use in attic ventilation? I'm looking
    for two inch or so diameter.
    
    Thanks, Chuck
403.46MAXWEL::BROSNIHANBRIANWed Sep 24 1986 17:532
      One stop shopping.......SPAG'S has it all! I've seen the vents
    your talking about there.
403.47Count them before you leave!LATOUR::TREMBLAYMon Sep 29 1986 14:2313
    Yes, SPAGs does have round screened louvered vents (and good prices
    on hole cutters too), but make sure you count them before you leave
    the store. I bought about 40 vents there, actually 3 1/2 boxes of
    them that they pulled from their storage shelves in the back....when I
    got home I realized that one of the supposedly full boxes was 1/2
    empty! Apparently one of the boxes was used to fill the floor display
    bins and was mistaken for a full box when taken out of storage...an
    honest mistake....but I had to go back the day I planned to install
    them (frustrating!).   BTW, this was the ONLY screwup I've ever
    experienced at SPAGs (and I'm a regular customer). 
    							/Glenn  
    
403.48watch out for cabinet hardwareNAC::SEGERthis space intentionally left blankMon Sep 29 1986 15:235
While we're on the subject of counting, if you ever by cabinet hardware count
the screws in those silly little packages.  I've been short changed several
times -- not by spags but by the manufacturer.

-mark
403.49Screwed on screws at SpagsRINGO::FINGERHUTMon Sep 29 1986 15:586
    Now that you mentioned it, I've been shortchanged on screws in
    cabinet hardware from spags too.  It was several years ago, but
    I recall that an unusually large percentage of the packages were
    short on them.  I guess as long as you count them while you're
    picking them out, you'll do ok.
    
403.50Attic vents in plumbingCSSE32::NICHOLSHERBFri Oct 10 1986 15:337
    the cylindrical vents are in the plumbing dept as I recall. Bought
    a bunch there for a ridiculous low price compared with local hdwre
    stores
    
    
    			herb
    
403.51Where to find it, the final chapter...JOET::JOETMon Nov 17 1986 19:1819
    In the November 16th Worcester Sunday Telegram, there was a 12 page
    full-size Spag's insert.  In the center of the top of page 5, there was
    a 5" by 11" photograph of a woman wearing a black evening gown and a
    very fashionable wide-brimmed black hat canted rakishly so as to cover
    her eyes.  She was tastefully draped with pearls and the whole thing
    looked very much like a stock ad photo stolen out of "Vogue" or
    somesuch. The copy ran as follows: 
    
                               Cultured Pearls
                       Lovely, Lustrous, Sophisticated
                          The pick of the pearl crop
    
      Carefully selected by our expert gem buyers.  Great values in the
      sea's most precious jewels.  Cultured pearls, classic and stylish,
             in necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and pins.
    
                       Just for you  A gift of Love
                         20% off our regular prices
                       Located at our tackle counter
403.52ULTRA::PRIBORSKYTony PriborskyTue Nov 18 1986 12:163
    There must be a violation of physics at Spag's.   *Everything* is
    located at the tackle counter.   Either that, or they have one whopping
    big tackle counter.  :-)
403.53time for a get together?EXODUS::SEGERthis space intentionally left blankTue Nov 18 1986 12:224
Now that Xmas time is drawing near, lots of noters get together for 
lunch.  I think we should get together and go to SPAGS!!!

-mark
403.54An appropriate meeting place?HPSMEG::LUKOWSKIThe Monday that wouldn't quit!Tue Nov 18 1986 16:446
    Re: .54
    
      And meet at the tackle counter?
    
    -Jim
    
403.55Old Spag's HandARGUS::CURTISDick 'Aristotle' CurtisWed Dec 03 1986 16:3346
    re tackle counter:
    
    Spag's started out (several decades ago) as a fishing tackle store,
    renting part of an empty warehouse.  (Sound like a computer company
    we know? (-;)  Over time, he's added various departments (electrical,
    plumbing, toys/games, clothes -- I think I can remember when he
    started selling jeans & boots).  This accounts for a lot of the
    "intuitively obvious" floor plan he's got; any of you who have been
    in 200+ year-old farmhouses should understand.
    
    Various people are correct about prices there.  Spag's makes no
    claims that he won't be undersold, and sometimes he is.  I too have
    occasionally seen things which I felt were not priced "right" (although
    it seems more often to strike me as "too high -- don't need it"
    than "it's cheaper at Foobar's").  It is useful to know what prices
    are like at other stores which offer the same items.
    
    Given all that, it's still a neat place.  Of course, when I got
    my license so's I could drive myself down there, I'd had close to
    ten years of patronage there, under my belt.  (I can remember a
    time when they didn't sell cheese, eggs, cookies, and other food.
    Gorry, I'm gettin' old...)
    
    The month I moved into my first apartment, I blew two or three hundred
    dollars there.  It was more than I was used to doing; before I moved
    out, I'd been stopping there weekly, though, so it had been less
    obvious.  Thought that I was doing the drunken-sailor routine --
    until October, when I moved into my first house.  Yup, yup, gotta
    have a spade, a rake or two, a hoe, a pick-axe, a trailer for the
    tractor, a saw, ... electrical boxes, duplex outlets, 12-2 Romex...
    paint, turps ...
    
    The bank whose ATM is on Spag's property, next to the Old Schoolhouse,
    is (I think) the largest commercial bank in Worcester.  When I moved
    to Maynard,  I kept my account with them, for obvious reasons. 
    Wonder if they and Spag's could work out some sort of deal for
    helping the cash flow through...
    
    BTW, for the sheds that they sell, in cooperation with the company
    who builds them, I think that they *might* take a check.  You'd
    have to ask, if you're interested.  But for general merchandise,
    it's cold cash.  Can't blame him: it cuts the overhead for dealing
    with plastic & checks, and increases throughput at the check-outs.
    
    Dick
    
403.56shedsMAY11::WARCHOLWed Dec 03 1986 17:582
    No checks on the sheds. A friend of mine tried, the idea popping
    into his head while he was there for something else.
403.57There is an exception...STAR::SWISTJim Swist ZKO1-1/D42 381-1264Wed Dec 03 1986 20:106
    A guy in the old schoolhouse contractor's tools dept said that they
    would take a cashier's (and ONLY cashier's) check for a SINGLE item
    over $1000.  I.E. If you buy 2 items for $501 apiece, it's still
    cash.
    
    
403.58about the shedsPARITY::SZABOThu Dec 04 1986 11:134
    About sheds at Spags'...
    
    Are they the steel type?  How's the selection (styles and sizes)?
    And, of course, prices?
403.59Car Oil?HPSCAD::FORTMILLEREd FortmillerThu Dec 04 1986 11:142
    It seems to me that I remember reading in a newspaper a few years
    ago that SPAGS started by selling car oil.
403.60Wood onlyPUNK::SUNGMerry XwayThu Dec 04 1986 13:378
    RE .59
    
    Sheds at Spags are the wood type.  No steel ones.  I think there's
    somewhere between 4 to 6 different models (probably covers most
    sizes available).  Don't know the exact price, but it includes
    installation.
    
    -al
403.61Sorry -- everybody I know says "fishing tackle"ARGUS::CURTISDick 'Aristotle' CurtisSun Dec 07 1986 01:0917
    .60:
    
    I disbelieve it.  I believe that he's been selling engine oil for
    only about 15 years or so (I don't remember my father getting oil
    there when I was very small -- I KNOW that the area it's in now
    wasn't part of the store 15 or 20 years ago.)  
    
    It's been interesting the last five years: you can almost get a
    balanced diet there, if you're careful to catch the Progresso sales.
    (I usually spring for a case of chickpeas.  Now if he'd start selling
    tahini...)  It wouldn't be too far from balanced -- but not exactly
    standard, either.  But if you can stand to eat Trapist preserves,
    imported Scottish shortbread, and Pepperidge Farm cookies (at about
    15% or 20% off!)...
    
    Dick
    
403.62Makita at Spags (this week)RINGO::FINGERHUTSun Dec 07 1986 20:493
  Spags has most of their Makita tools on sale this week.  The prices
    are real good.  For example, the recipro saw is $99.
    
403.63Makita sale was more than 1 week longRINGO::FINGERHUTThu Dec 18 1986 19:164
    If anyone's interested, the Makita sale at Spags is still on (or
    was last night).  You won't find better prices for Makita tools
    anywhere.  
    
403.64$5 off couponVIDEO::FINGERHUTTue Dec 30 1986 15:473
    January's Yankee Magazine has a coupon for $5 off on anything at
    Spags with a minimum $25 purchase.
    
403.65Does Spag's have sheet plexiglass?SCREAM::SCHNEIDERWed Jan 28 1987 11:063
    ...and will they cut it to size?
    
    Thanks, Chuck
403.66Yes, Spags does sell PlexiglassJON::FARRELLThirty Six Bit Paleontologist..Wed Jan 28 1987 13:404
They do.  In the plumbing department, last time I was there.   They should
cut it to size also.


403.67PlexiglassVIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Jan 28 1987 14:158
>                          -< Yes, Spags does sell Plexiglass >-

>They do.  In the plumbing department, last time I was there.   They should
>cut it to size also.
 
    I've had glass cut to size there, so I'm sure they'll cut the
    plexiglass too.
    
403.68Does Spags have electric heat??VAXWRK::BSMITHBrad SmithFri Jan 30 1987 16:4310
Can someone tell me if Spags sells electric baseboard heaters??

I need 6' and 7' lengths...

Thanks,

Brad.

PS:  It is a ride for me, that is why I am asking, if I could get a phone
	number, that would do also...
403.69Not even at the tackle counterVIDEO::FINGERHUTFri Jan 30 1987 18:415
>    Can someone tell me if Spags sells electric baseboard heaters??
 
    No, they don't.
    I've been getting them thru the Sears Catalog.
    
403.70Phone #MAXWEL::BROSNIHANBRIANSat Jan 31 1987 11:331
    FYI...Spags is unlisted.
403.71SomervilleLSMVAX::POWELLReed Powell - LCG Marketing - 297-4261Mon Feb 02 1987 00:414
    Somerville has them, cost should be around $80 or so.  They were
    running low on certain lengths when I picked up some shorter ones
    last week.
    
403.72Baseboard heatersVIDEO::FINGERHUTMon Feb 02 1987 11:438
    re:  baseboard heaters
   
  >    Somerville has them, cost should be around $80 or so. 
    
    Through the Sears catalog the prices range from $30 for 29" to
    about $60 for 8'.
    

403.73plexiglass si, cutting noLDP::SCHNEIDERWed Feb 04 1987 10:546
    re plexiglass, back a few: they do indeed have it, but won't cut
    it to size (maybe I didn't ask nice enough :-) There are a handful of
    sizes available and, as mentioned elsewhere, it's not hard to cut
    by scoring (meticulously) and breaking.
    
    Chuck
403.74what can you tell me about lighting @ Spags?ZEPPO::ROSENTHALOut to break Murphy's Law!Wed Feb 04 1987 11:1919
    
    Is anyone familiar with the selection of lighting available at
    Spags?  We have to select and buy our own indoor and outdoor
    lighting for the home we're buying in Leominster (the builder 
    installs it and credits us @ closing).
    
    When I asked the builder for lighting shop recommendations,
    he suggested Marlboro Elec. Supply (Route 85 in Marlboro...
    he warned us that they run a little on the high side, but 
    carry mfrs. like Quoisel), and also suggested Spags.
    
    Before I journey into Spags, I wanted to check with people
    more familiar with Spags.
    
    Also, does Spags stock mirrored/lighted medicine cabinets
    and doorbells?
    
    thanks...                        /donna
    
403.75Lighting at SpagsVIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Feb 04 1987 11:589
    Spags has an annual lighting sale.  It ended last week.  Sorry.
    
    
    But, yes, you can get all kinds of indoor and outdoor lighting
    there.  The prices are good, even though it's not their sale.
    They have medicine cabinets both in the main store (plumbing)
    and in the schoolhouse.  Make sure you check the cabinets in the
    schoolhouse because they have most of them over there.
    
403.76Ayuh, doorbells tooARGUS::CURTISDick 'Aristotle' CurtisWed Feb 04 1987 13:0111
    .75:
    
    And they have several different doorbells; the selection is adequate
    but not extensive.  They'll be in Electrical, very close to the
    lights (oddly enough).
    
    Just remember to bring cash.  If you plan to wander through most
    of the store, bring more cash than you think you'll need.
    
    Dick
    
403.77Bought from bothPUNK::SUNGHoopbusters - de agony of de feetWed Feb 04 1987 13:3612
    The selection in Marlboro Electric is much higher than at Spag's
    although there is some overlap.  Spag's has mainly standard, no
    frills lighting, whereas Marlboro Electric carries the designer
    brands, crystal chandeliers, halogen, table/desk lamps, track lights, etc.
    
    If you are buying lots of lights, you can request the discount
    of 50% of the manufacturer's list price (you say you have a new
    house to buy fixtures for).  They normally sell for 40% off of list.
    
    At 50% off of list, Spag's is only a few bucks cheaper than M.E.
    
    -al
403.78HPSMEG::LUKOWSKIThe Monday that wouldn't quit!Wed Feb 04 1987 16:509
      Although Spag's lighting sale ended this past Saturday, they still
    have a lot of the 'demo' stuff still hanging and at lower prices
    than what they were on sale for.  I believe that these prices apply
    strictly to the demo's but I'm not sure.  Also, if it is only the
    demo's, make sure that the demo comes complete.
    
    -Jim
    
    
403.227Tools on saleISBG::POWELLReed Powell - LCG Marketing - 297-4261Tue Feb 24 1987 21:585
    Now that I'm done with any work on the addition that needs this
    (of course), Spags has the Remington Podwer Actuated stud-gun on
    sale for $79 (regularly at spags 129, 169 elsewhere). Costs 25/day
    to rent, so this is a real good deal.
    
403.228Sears gun for $18FRSBEE::PAGLIARULOWed Feb 25 1987 10:223
	I just picked up Sears power actuated gun for $18.  It's the one you
have to hit with a hammer but for about a $60 difference I'll swing the hammer.
The Sears gun is made by Remington.
403.229AMULET::YELINEKWed Feb 25 1987 12:082
    I've been thinking about that purchase for awhile. Did you buy it
    through catalog sales or the store? Does it come with the charges?
403.230Ready, aim, hammer...WELFAR::PGRANSEWICZWed Feb 25 1987 14:511
    Spags's also has the hammer fired Remington on sale for $17.50.
403.231FRSBEE::PAGLIARULOWed Feb 25 1987 14:515
	The hammer, loads and fasteners have to be ordered through the catalog.
Since it's a Remington you can also get the loads and fasteners from any 
hardware store that sells parts for powder acctuated tools.  The $18 is the
sale price.  I don't know how long the sale lasts.  I haven't used mine yet but
I expect to this weekend.
403.79Spag's return policy?TARKIN::BERKSONWed Apr 01 1987 20:544
    
    What is Spag's return policy? Thanks.
    
       mitch
403.80As liberal as they get. A first class storeCSSE32::NICHOLSHERBWed Apr 01 1987 21:107
    Spag's has one of the BEST return policy i have ever seen in my *~
    years of shopping. We have NEVER been refused. From a rug which had
    some defects in it, to unopened underwear (my stomach had grown more
    than I had wanted to acknowledge), to parts for a charcoal broiler
    which did not fit but which I had opened and tried to install. On and
    on. If you think it is reasonable to return it, and have a receipt 
    it almost certainly is returnable.
403.81returnsVIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Apr 01 1987 21:1410
>        If you think it is reasonable to return it, and have a receipt 
>    it almost certainly is returnable.

    If you don't have a receipt, you can return items too.  They'll
    just send you back to the department to get an authorization from
    someone working there.  I returned ski goggles there that I bought
    6 months before (they were unused and unopened).  The employee
    said "we don't sell these anymore....but I guess we do now", and
    put it back on the shelf.
    
403.82Flourescent Orange TagNUWAVE::SUNGAl Sung (Xway Development)Wed Apr 01 1987 21:384
    The flourescent orange SPAG's price tag on the item is usually sufficient
    evidence for a return.  Never had any problems.
    
    -al
403.83HPSMEG::LUKOWSKIThe Monday that wouldn't quit!Thu Apr 02 1987 13:527
      I find that Spag's is as flexible if not more so than most reputable
    stores.  The only thing they are not flexible on is how you pay:CASH
    ONLY!  They even accept manufacturers coupons.  Sometimes they will
    even supply the coupons next to the item.  
    
    -Jim
    
403.84Check's, sometimesWELFAR::PGRANSEWICZThu Apr 02 1987 16:277
    There are cases when Spag's WILL accept checks, probably bank checks.
    I think if you are paying more than $1000 for something they will
    take a certified check.  This would have to be confirmed with them
    before attempting it as I've never spent that much at Spag's on
    a single item.  But I'm sure someday I will ;-)
    
    Phil
403.85USMRM2::CBUSKYMon Apr 06 1987 12:376
    I brought back a "bug zapper" once that comitted suicide after about
    two months use. The garden department took a look at it, said sorry
    about that, do you want another? I said no thanks, they signed the
    slip and I walked out with $60 in my pocket. 
    
    Charly
403.86GFCI's on saleHPSMEG::LUKOWSKIThe Monday that wouldn't quit!Wed Apr 22 1987 20:057
      Spags has GFCI's on sale for $8.88 this week.  These are Leviton
    models that have screw terminals like a regular outlet.  They are
    not out in the open. You have to ask for it in the electrical dept 
    and they will write you a slip for it.
    
    -Jim
    
403.87ULTRA::PRIBORSKYTony PriborskyThu Apr 23 1987 14:114
    That's a fantastic price, and those are the best kind of breakers.
    I worried about the kind that uses a piece of 16 or 18 gauge twisted
    wire for serving the down-line outlets.  Those little wires certainly
    aren't capable of carrying 15amps, are they?
403.88Wish we had them hereTUNDRA::MCQUIDEThu Apr 23 1987 17:057
    In reading through this note file, Spag's seems to come up very
    often.  That must be some kind of store.  As i live and work in
    Vermont, Spag's is not convenient but I do travel once in awhile
    to Mass.  Where is Spag's located? and what are their hours during
    the week? 
    
    thanks.
403.89You gotta know your prices, tho...JOULE::CONNELLIt's mine! mine! all mine!Thu Apr 23 1987 17:268
>Where is Spag's located? and what are their hours during
    the week? 
    
 Spag's is on Route 9 in Shrewsbury, MA. (a few miles east of Worcester)
Their hours are 8:00 to 8:00 (I think), Monday thru Saturday (I know).
Cash only-- no checks.  Bring your own bags &/or boxes.

						--Mike
403.90HPSMEG::LUKOWSKIThe Monday that wouldn't quit!Thu Apr 23 1987 18:1313
      Spag's is open until 9:00.  I've been there after nine a few times
    and they subtly give you the hint by turning off lights here and
    there.  I have never heard the annoying announcements like 'we will
    be closing in x minutes ...'.  They don't have great deals on
    everything but certain departments are known for their low prices.
    Spag's popularity does seem to grow over time.  Even the Wall Street
    Journal write about them on occasion.  I'll confess that I do go
    there quite often...I live three miles from there.  Also, when you
    do go there, make sure you see the daily specials listed by the
    entrances.  
    
    -Jim
    
403.91open at 9:00 on weekdays?CHAS::DEMERSNo NeWS is Good NeWSThu Apr 23 1987 20:202
    Unless the change was recent, they open at 9:00 on weekdays.  Call
    to find out!!! (only kidding!!)
403.92I live there...WELFAR::PGRANSEWICZThu Apr 23 1987 20:268
    Mon. - Fri.  9 am - 9 pm
    Sat.	 8 am - 9 pm
    Sun.	  closed
    
    Special Christmas hours.
    
    Bring *LOTS* of cash!!!
    
403.93ULTRA::PRIBORSKYTony PriborskyThu Apr 23 1987 20:327
    Re: .93:   "Call to find out"
    
    Just in case people don't get it, Spag's does NOT have a telephone
    number you can call to find out anything.   Annoying, especially
    when you live 50 miles away, but that's the way it is.  After all,
    you wouldn't expect them to be bothered with "do you have..." phone
    calls, would you?
403.94stranded wire carrys more currentPEANO::GLASERSteve Glaser DTN 226-7646 LKG1-2/A19Thu Apr 23 1987 20:4110
    re .89

    Remember that stranded wire has a higher current rating than equivalent
    size solid wire.  Current only flows on the skin of a wire and stranded
    wire has more surface area.  It is more difficult to work with (you
    have to make sure all strands are connected, etc.).
    
    Check the code for details.
    
    Steveg 
403.95Call Spags at....COBRA::DUTHIEThu Apr 23 1987 20:515
    Well, if you look in the Worcester phone book under
               Borgatti, Anthony A Jr
    you will find an office number and a residence number.
    If you call the office number they will give you the store number
    (which is 799-2570).
403.96Nit: skin effect only at HFCLUSTA::MATTHESTue Jun 09 1987 19:415
    re .96
    
    Nit:  I think you'll find that current only flows at the surface
    of a conductor at high frequencies.  At 60HZ, it's the total cross
    sectional area you want to consider.  Stranded just gives more flexibility.
403.97Nit: stranded has more surface area...YODA::BARANSKI1's &amp; 0's, what could be simpler?!Tue Jun 09 1987 20:390
403.98re-nitAMULET::FARRINGTONstatistically anomalousWed Jun 10 1987 16:562
    It's still a high frequency effect; not at 60Hz.  The skin effect
    thingie.
403.99I couldn't resistBARNUM::DVORAKWed Jun 10 1987 19:2611
    .100 is correct. For those that want to determine the skin
    (or penetration) depth, the equation is
    
    D(pen) (cm) = 7.5 * (frequency)^(-.5)
    
    Multistranded wire is used in some high frequency applications,
    but each strand is individually insulated with varnish. This
    is called Litz (sp?) wire.
    
    George Dvorak
    
403.100A Spagaholic on the way to recovery...WELFAR::PGRANSEWICZFri Jul 17 1987 21:0712
    Alas, my beliefs have been shattered!!!
    
    I recently bought an item in the plumbing dept. at Spag's which
    was $.80 cheaper at Sommerville Lumber of all places!!!  It's not
    the $.80 that bothers me, but my trust of Spag's has been shaken
    tremendously.
    
    Another Spag's lesson learned.  Check the main building first and
    then the school house.  They had the same item, in both places,
    marked differently.
    
    Phil
403.101Still a very good storeREGENT::GETTYSBob Gettys N1BRMMon Jul 20 1987 12:0312
                Spag's is the same as most other stores in one aspect.
        They CAN'T ALWAYS have the lowest price! What they can have is
        prices that you won't get stuck with (i.e. pay way too much)
        along with the good prices for the rest of the stuff. This is
        especially true for those items that they must keep in stock.
        You can't always get the best price from your wholesaler every
        time.
                
                /s/     Bob
                
  Moral (if any) =  You've got to know your prices when shopping
                    anywhere!
403.102AUTHOR::WELLCOMESteveMon Jul 20 1987 13:122
    Sale on the electronic stud finders at Spag's - $11.95 with (I think)
    a $2.00 manufacturer's rebate available in addition.  
403.103It's still my first choiceWELFAR::PGRANSEWICZMon Jul 20 1987 16:2011
    RE: .103
    
    I always knew that Spag's prices could be beat at other places but
    the last place on earth I thought would beat them would be Sommerville
    Lumber!!!  From my observations, much of their stuff is 30-50% more
    than other places in order to keep all those "helpful" people on
    the floor.  Oh well, so much for Spag's unbeatable plumbing prices.
    But I still think for every 1 thing that can be had for less elsewhere,
    there are 100 things that you'll save money on.  Hell, I going back
    for 1 thing after work!  I hope I have enough money...
    
403.104MARTY::FRIEDMANMon Jul 20 1987 19:262
    Spag's is just plain the best place, and the most fun too!
    
403.105Sommervile ? Gack! ;^) BARNUM::DVORAKMon Jul 20 1987 23:314
    You do have to know prices anywhere, but even if Spag's is more
    sometimes, I would rather shop there than Sommervile Lumber.
    At Spags the price is (almost) always clearly marked, and I don't
    have to wait 20 minutes in a checkout line.  Sommerville, however...
403.232Tool AuctionVIDEO::FINGERHUTTue Jul 21 1987 16:0313

    I received a flyer about a tool auction at the Townsend MA VFW on
    July 22 7:30 PM.  This looks like a huge amount of tools.  
    A lot of Makita power tools and a lot of FAMOUS BRAND.  I assume
    most of this is the same junk that you get mail from the
    TOOL LIQUIDATORS about.  (The ads that make it sound like they're
    giving you a change to take all these tools almost for free before
    they dump them in the ocean.)
    
    Most of the tools are new.  I"ll be going just because I live
    nearby.  I thought maybe others might be interested.  
    
403.233I've been thereHPSMEG::LUKOWSKII need an 'AUX' for my stereoTue Jul 21 1987 17:2221
      I went to the one in Maynard a few weeks back.  I too received
    a flyer yesterday for one of these in Holden last night.  Yup, same
    company (Bob Cummins Enterprises...Omaha Nebraska).  It was somewhat 
    interesting.  Most of it is imported stuff (read:  I never heard of 
    it before) but they do have some name brand equipment.  I found that 
    there weren't too many deals. You could buy a lot of the stuff at 
    Spags within few dollars of their prices.  If they get the price 
    they are looking for, they will sell massive quantities of it at that
    price (their tractor-trailor is sitting outside).  If they don't get
    the price they are looking for, they will only sell that one unit.  
    For the few dollar difference in price, I would rather buy locally
    and be able to return it if there's a problem.  I don't know how good 
    some of the other equipment is like their bandsaws and drill presses...
    I had never heard of 'Pro-Tech' before. If you know your prices and 
    what you want before going, you may find a good deal.  Also note on 
    the flyer that the tools listed are subject to prior sales.  This
    means that they had all of the stuff when they started in the area but
    may have sold it at a prior auction like the one last night in Holden.
    
    -Jim
    
403.107this is heating up!TALLIS::SAMARASAdvanced Vax Engineering LTNMon Jul 27 1987 21:175
I just bought a fire extinguisher at Spags for $24.99.  A day later, I saw 
the same one at the Channel (in NH) for $22.00.


My fault,  I didn't shop.
403.108zone valvesVAXINE::RIDGETue Jul 28 1987 16:226
    
    ZONE VALVES FOR $38!! What type?? Were these complete units orjust
    the replacement unit.   Were these TACO????   These are for FHW
    heat, right?? 
    
    Steve
403.217Peat moss? Spags?VIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Nov 18 1987 18:402
    Where is a good place to buy peat moss in Mass.?  Does Spags sell it?  
    If so, do they have it this time of year or only in the summer?
403.218DICKNS::WELLCOMESteve Wellcome (Maynard)Wed Nov 18 1987 19:072
    Of course Spag's sells it!  I don't know if it's available at this
    time of year though.
403.219peat mossMRMFG1::J_BORZUMATOThu Nov 19 1987 18:094
    spags has closed it garden shop for the season....
    
    
    jim
403.220Garden StoreOBSESS::COUGHLINKathy Coughlin-HorvathFri Nov 20 1987 15:476
    
    or any garden/landscaping store.  these stores are gearing up for
    xmas now but i would be they have peat moss on hand all year.
    
    
    k
403.221JOET::JOETSun Nov 29 1987 12:137
    re: .2 and the disappearing peat moss
    
    When they close the garden shop, what happens to all of the other stuff
    they sold there in the spring/summer/fall?  Can't you still buy a
    Spag's ladder in the winter? 
    
    -joet
403.222Ladders at SpagsVIDEO::FINGERHUTSun Nov 29 1987 15:035
    >Can't you still buy a Spag's ladder in the winter.
    
    I did.  You go to plumbing to get a slip of paper with the price.
    After you pay for it they go over and unlock the gate and get you
    the ladder.
403.110$23.95/box instead of $14.95VIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Jan 20 1988 12:341
    Has the price of Romex gone up by 65% everywhere recently or only at Spags?
403.111price of copper gone crazyHARPO::B_HENRYBill HenryWed Jan 20 1988 12:538
< Note 255.112 by VIDEO::FINGERHUT >
                       -< $23.95/box instead of $14.95 >-

>    Has the price of Romex gone up by 65% everywhere recently or only at Spags?

Actually, you should replace the word Romex with the word copper. The answer 
is yes, everywhere. Bought any copper tubing lately (assuming thatyou are a 
licenced plumber of course :-))?
403.112box = inexact unitBINKLY::WINSTONJeff Winston (Hudson, MA)Wed Jan 20 1988 15:113
403.113Save your pennies!CHART::CBUSKYWed Jan 20 1988 15:3510
    A "standard box" of wire at Spag's and other "good" electrical supply
    houses is usually 250 feet. Copper wire did take a HUGE JUMP in price
    as of the 1st of the year. Boy was I suprised! 
    
    Grossman's and other "Home Owner" type stores sell "mini" boxes of wire
    in "convienent" lengths of 25', 50' 100' etc... at outrageous prices.
    These are usually the same type of stores that sell a blister pack of 6
    screws for 79 cents.

    Charly
403.114I meant a 250' boxVIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Jan 20 1988 16:155
403.115HPSMEG::LUKOWSKII lost my A$$ in the '87 CRASH!Thu Jan 21 1988 11:3914
      Re: .116
    
      Don't you mean 12-2?  A few months ago I bought 12-2 for $25/250'.
    It has since gone up to approx $33/250'.  If you by a particular
    length instead of a box then this doesn't apply.  I too was shocked
    by the price increase and asked them about it.  Apparently they
    were also shocked when they had to reorder.  I got the impression that
    they buy massive quantities of the stuff and therefore didn't see
    gradual price increases but only the 'jump' in price.  I'm glad
    I bought it when I did; however, at the rate I'm doing my wiring
    job, I'll never run out!   :^)
    
    -Jim
     
403.116Spags wireVIDEO::FINGERHUTThu Jan 21 1988 11:497
>          Don't you mean 12-2?  A few months ago I bought 12-2 for $25/250'.
>    It has since gone up to approx $33/250'.  
    
    Yes.  Sorry.  The per/foot price I quoted was for 12-2 which as
    you say is $33/box.  14-2 and 12-2 both went up $9/box.
    

403.117costs have jumped everywhereOBSESS::COUGHLINKathy Coughlin-HorvathThu Jan 21 1988 16:158
    
    Last night my husband bought some electrical cable to use for the
    final phase of putting our electrical service from street to house
    underground. Cost of the cable was double what we paid two months
    ago.  The store manager told my husband that the price of copper
    doubled within the last month.  Our electrician said the same thing.
                                                          
    Kathy
403.118It had to happen sooner or later. DEC at Spag'sSTAR::SWISTJim Swist ZKO3-4/U14 381-1264Fri May 27 1988 15:457
    It seems that because the SDC is switching over to Corporate Gray
    binders for documentation from the red-orange they used to use,
    there was a surplus of zillions of red binders that the SDC couldn't
    use.
    
    Guess who they sold them to?
    
403.119Only 1 eyebrow raised (until someone answers...)LYCEUM::CURTISDick &quot;Aristotle&quot; CurtisWed Jun 01 1988 16:167
    .120:
    
    I saw some of the "chinese red" binders in the Schoolhouse 2 or
    3 months ago, but they didn't have DEC part numbers -- or do we
    put the part numbers on ourselves?
    
    Dick
403.120SEINE::CE_JOHNSONStand fast in liberty.Wed Jun 01 1988 18:2111
    RE: .121
    
    That's correct. SDC buys the binders as blanks and they are
    identified by a 'spine insert' which goes in the plastic end
    sleeve which gives the type of operating system and contents.
    
    This gives flexibility of manufacture and allows reduction of
    parts needed to be stocked. End of tour. ;)
    
    Charlie
    
403.121Digital binders at SpagsVIDEO::FINGERHUTWed Jun 01 1988 18:4712
    I have chinese red binders that have DIGITAL printed on the spine,
    as well as a part number printed on the back.  I also have the
    binders with nothing on them.
    
    My guess is that Digital stopped buying Chinese Red binders so the
    supplier was stuck with them.  I'd say Spags bought them from the
    supplier, not from Digital.
    
    Maybe Spags offered them more than Building 19.
    
    
    
403.122TriviaLYCEUM::CURTISDick &quot;Aristotle&quot; CurtisThu Jun 02 1988 16:275
    Part Number 12-13565-02, for the 2.5" binders, in the lower right
    corner of the outside of the back cover.  However, only 2 of 6 that
    I've just inspected have the part number (one printed, one embossed).
    
    Dick
403.123SDC Position on Red BindersDANUBE::J_DIGIORGIOMon Jul 18 1988 20:3842
    
    Regarding replies .120-.124
    
    As the SDC implements DEC Standard 073, grey binders will be phased
    in on major new product revisions.  "Point revisions" (ex: VMS 4.1
    to 4.2) will continue to use Chinese red binders.
    
    Therefore, we are, and will continue to consume significant quantities
    of the red binder during change over.  There is NOT as .120 stated
    a "surplus of zillions of red binders that the SDC can't use". 
                                         
    For clarification; 
    1. The SDC does not dispose of ANY product via retail stores.  All 
       obsolete product is transfered to DEC's Property Disposal Center. 
       SDC complies with Digital's policy of insuring all products are 
       non-recognizable (as Digital products) prior to disposal.
    
    2. Under contract, Digital binder suppliers are NOT permitted to sell
       Digital marked products to any party not authorized by Digital.
       We at the SDC closely control the use of the Digital trademark, as
       well as other proprietary data contained in Purchase Specifications.
    
    3. All Digital SDC binders are required to be marked with supplier
       name (or abbreviation) and 2-5-2 Digital part number on the lower
       right rear corner.  
                           
    Since I've been unable to track down anyone that can verify (first hand) 
    the existance of Digital binders from a non-DEC source, it sounds like
    Spag's was probably selling some similarly colored, non-DEC marked
    binders.  Digital does NOT own rights to the Chinese Red color,
    therefore it's possible that excess vinyl was utilized by a supplier to
    produce a "similar" consumer binder product.
    
    In an effort to track down the "potential" source leaking these
    DEC binders (or other SDC products), please notify me immediately on 
    siteing Digital products at ANY retail/discount store.
    
    Thank you.
    Jim Digiorgio
    SDC Purchasing Manager
    DTN 241-3041
    
403.124They're out there...JAWS::COTEfeelin' kinda hyper...Mon Jul 25 1988 20:417
    I've also seen the Chinese Red binders available retail at The
    Fair in Worcester. The color caught my eye enough for me to pick
    one up and check it out...
    
    Sure enough, it was DEC issue. Said so right on it.
    
    Edd 
403.125Their in there!VLNVAX::HEDERSTEDTT.B.S.Tue Aug 02 1988 10:326
    I also saw the DEC binder in FAIR in Whitensville(sp?) several months
    ago.I thought it might be a over-stock by the manafacture because
    I have found some binders there made for Ford and their light truck
    family.
    
    			Wayne
403.126Reposted Spag's phone numberALIEN::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothFri Aug 12 1988 20:2417
            <<< JOET::DUA1:[000000.NOTES$LIBRARY]HOME_WORK.NOTE;1 >>>
                         -< Better living through DIY >-
================================================================================
Note 2549.1                  What Is Spag's Phone #                       1 of 1
MPGS::BARWISE                                         9 lines  12-AUG-1988 15:29
                               -< 508-752-8612 >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    
    I believe you actually call Spag's house, where he has/had the
    "executive office", at 752-8612, then ask to be transferred to 
    the department you're interested in.
    
    It's crazy, but true! I just called and verified.
    
    RB
403.127use with care...BINKLY::WINSTONJeff Winston (Hudson, MA)Fri Aug 12 1988 22:037
They have many numbers, some have been posted elsewhere.  I find if
I'm real quick, and ask knowledgable questions (did you get in your
shipment of X, are you open 12/24, etc) they're real helpful. 
However, they don't take to well to 'telephone shoppers' (what kinds
of clock-radios do you carry, how much do they cost, which one has
better features, etc) 

403.128Will they be undersold?MARX::SULLIVANDon't PanicWed Oct 19 1988 12:0911
    Does anyone know what Spag's policy on returns is?
    
    I bought something there Monday night which I later saw at Somerville
    Lumber for much less ($16.99 vs. $6.99!, not a sale either).
    
    Do they have a 7 day limit? Don't think I'll be able to make it
    back there within 7 days.
    
    							Thanks,
    								Mark
    
403.129CSSE32::NICHOLSHERBWed Oct 19 1988 12:235
    I am very satisfied with SPAG's return policy. Am CERTAIN (without
    knowing) that if you have the sales slip, your return will be honored
    provided the item has not been used.
    
    				herb
403.130MTWAIN::WELLCOMESteve Wellcome (Maynard)Wed Oct 19 1988 12:449
    Ditto to .131.  Their return policy is pretty lenient.  If you have
    the sales slip and the product is unused, you should have no problem.
    There was a note someplace in here I think that said the person
    had been able to return something even without the sales slip because
    the item still had the price sticker that said SPAGS on it.  Give
    it a try, anyway!
    
    The return "desk" is on the left just as you go in the door from the 
    big parking lot.
403.131unofficial spag's return policyTFH::DONNELLYTake my advice- Don't listen to meWed Oct 19 1988 15:005
i've returned things to spag's with receipts, without receipts, right away, 
after six months, broken, unbroken, and all combinations thereof.  as far
as i can tell they are the closest thing to l. l. bean going.

craig
403.132in re 255.130. Tsk, tsk, tsk See 255.81,.82 etcCSSE32::NICHOLSHERBWed Oct 19 1988 15:234
    DIR 255.* reveals several on return policy
    
    
    				herb
403.133BINKLY::WINSTONJeff Winston (Hudson, MA)Wed Oct 19 1988 17:493
ONE CAVEAT:  they wouldn't take back a 4mo old phone because they 
didn't carry them anymore (guess they were all lemons) - told me the 
limit there was 30 days.
403.134Cash Machine ReliabilityCOGMK::MALMBERGWed Dec 28 1988 16:534
    Every ATM within a reasonable distance of Spag's was out of money
    recently.  I've come to the conclusion that I must bring cash from
    farther away as this was the 'one time too many' occurrence!
    
403.135Spag's has no bagsTYCHO::REITHWed Dec 28 1988 17:3910
    With the holiday madness and cash only policy it doesn't surprise me.
    WCIS was closed Saturday so they didn't service the machine. Don't
    forget about the one in White City plaza just down the road. I suppose
    you had FINALLY found a parking place when you discovered the empty
    cash machines. And then there's the lack of servicable boxes to be
    found in the holiday hussle/bussle. Gee, I love Spag's at the holidays.
    10 deep outside Door 10 in the Christmas rain.
    
    Santa got a good deal on a Ryobi surfacer/planer and the tool building
    was hardly crowded at all, I heard.
403.136TB+2 usually more expensiveSTAR::RUBINOMon Mar 06 1989 13:156
    re .138
    
    Are they really selling Turf Builder +2 for less than Turf Builder??
    
    mike
    
403.137VINO::GRANSEWICZWhich way to Tahiti?Mon Mar 06 1989 15:515
    
    RE: .139
    
    	No, .138 had the descriptions (or the prices) reversed.  I know
    cuz I'm a lot poorer....
403.138Insert foot into mouth..HPSTEK::DVORAKI am Bush, yor host. Wlcome to 1954Mon Mar 06 1989 16:028
    
    
    Yes, sorry about that, I do have the prices backwards.  That's what
    I get for trying to put in hard data..  8^)
    
    I will go back and fix it...
    
    gjd
403.139HPSTEK::DVORAKI am Bush, yor host. Wlcome to 1954Mon Mar 06 1989 16:0619
 
    A (hopefully) correct price list.
    
    Spags is  selling  Scotts lawn fertilizer this year.  The prices appear
    to be better than others I have seen advertised.  Specifically:
    
    Product            Size        Price                  Scotts rebate
                      K feet       at register
    
    
    Turf Builder        6            12.99                Not
    plus halts                                            Applicable
    
    
    Turf Builder        10           16.99                8.00
                        15           24.99                12.00
    
    Turf builder        10           21.99                8.00
    plus 2              15           29.99                12.00
403.140Phone number/circular for spags??STAR::RUBINOWed Mar 08 1989 16:240
403.141HPSTEK::DVORAKI am Bush, yor host. Wlcome to 1954Wed Mar 08 1989 17:0610
    I think the phone # is in an earlier spag's note?
    
    I have  not  seen  it  in  a  circular.  I suppose I could send you the
    in-store slip which has the hand written item and price on it, (this is
    the slip which you  take  to the register and then to the pickup door),
    if that would do you any good.
    
    Kind regards,
    
    gjd
403.142Spags has an unlisted number!STAR::RUBINOThu Mar 09 1989 13:119
    Well, it seems that Spags has an unlisted phone number, so the
    phone call verificaton won't work. I guess Spags isn't into
    answering questions!!
    
    Thanks for the offer on the slip, but I think it needs to be a
    sales flyer or phone call verification.
    
    I'll keep my eyes opened for sales in the Nashua area.
    mike
403.143Phone NumberHPSTEK::SKIESTHit a motorcyclist GO TO JAILThu Mar 09 1989 15:058
    
    
    NOTE 255.97 has a phone number for SPAGS..
    
    TRY IT OUT!
    
    Steve
    
403.144You can call SPAGS!STAR::RUBINOFri Mar 10 1989 11:2815
    re .-1
    
    Yes, you're right! Thanks. I started reading forward and encountered
    a note saying they were unlisted, so I didn't go any further. I also
    called information and was told they were unlisted, but the number
    listed here works fine!
    
    Builders Square in Nashua called and verified the prices and so they
    matched them, plus I ended up with a coupon for 10% of the difference
    on each bag I bought. Turned out to be a good deal.
    
    Thanks!
    
    mike
    
403.145HPSTEK::SKIESTHit a motorcyclist GO TO JAILFri Mar 10 1989 13:4011
    
    re:-1
         
         Where's my 5% of the 10% :-)
    
    
    Glad it worked out for you...
    
    Steve
     
403.146limited time onlyTOPDOC::AHERNDennis the MenaceWed Mar 15 1989 16:064
    There's an ad on page 13 of today's Boston Globe that includes a
    coupon good for $10 off on a purchase totaling more than $50 at
    Spag's from March 13-18.
    
403.147TOKLAS::FELDMANDay 3: Joyful joists in placeThu Jun 29 1989 19:024
    Does anyone know what Spag's hours will be for this weekend?  Will they
    be open Saturday and Monday, at their regular hours?
    
       Gary
403.148should beHPSTEK::EKOKERNAKWatch this spaceFri Jun 30 1989 18:194
    The only change I would imagine is they may be closed Monday night.
    Saturday should be the same.  Where are you coming from?
    
    Elaine
403.149TOKLAS::FELDMANDay 4: Second floor deck and gable endFri Jun 30 1989 18:396
    Townsend.  It's a long drive, which is why I asked.  I'd hate to go out
    of my way just to find them closed, especially since Builder's Square
    is closer, much more likely to be open, takes plastic, and has prices
    almost as good.
    
       Gary
403.150NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Fri Jun 30 1989 19:401
    Call them and ask.  The number is listed somewhere in this topic.
403.234Reconditioned RYOBI Power ToolsFORCE::HQCONSOLThu Nov 30 1989 16:1910
    Factory reconditioned RYOBI power tools on sale at O'Connor's hardware
    on Rt 3A, Billerica:
    
    Sawzall - $78
    Screw Gun-$49
    10" Miter/Cutoff-119
    
    All reconditioned tools carry full manuf. warranty and are in new
    factory packaging.
    
403.151Paint sale dates?HDLITE::BURNSThu Apr 19 1990 16:534
    Could someone post the dates of Spag's annual paint sale?
    
    Thanks.
    
403.223~ 20'X40' blue tarpBUILD::MORGANThu Jul 19 1990 18:096
    This was the closest topic I could find concerning SPAGS.  I'm in need
    of a decent size tarp (the blue type) and was wondering if anyone has
    ever seen them at Spags.  They have an unlisted phone number.  Thanks
    in advance.
    
    					Steve
403.224VMSSG::NICHOLSHerb: CSSE support for VMS at ZKThu Jul 19 1990 19:052
    the spags numbers are listed in several places in this conference
    
403.225Mission accomplishedBUILD::MORGANFri Jul 20 1990 12:399
    Spags had a 25 X 40' tarp for $56.95.  Twenty to twenty five dollars
    cheaper than any lumber or hardware store in the Maynard area.  The
    number that's listed in reply .8 is not the number I used to contact
    the store yesterday.  It's not even the same exchange, but it may
    work.  It may not be a good idea to publish an unlisted phone number in
    this notes conference, so if anyone wants it, feel free to contact me.
    Thanks for all the help.
    
    					Steve
403.226RUNAWY::QUEDOT::DVORAKdtn 297-5386Fri Jul 20 1990 20:193
    Well, 508-799-2570 does work, I called Spag's yesterday.
    grins,
    gjd
403.152Sad but trueVMSDEV::PAULKM::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothMon Oct 01 1990 14:5514
I saw a mention of the fishing tackle counter in another note, and that jogged
my memory.  I was at Spag's last week, and the fishing tackle counter is no 
more!  It's gone, vanished, replaced.  When they opened their new "Sports shop"
store, all the fishing stuff went there.  The hand tools moved down from the
corner where they were to where the fishing tackle counter used to be, and
paint invaded the corner where the tools were.

There were other changes too, of course.  Gardening and plumbing took over the
golf area.  Art supplies took over the racktets, electronics and telephones 
took over the camping area.

But the biggest loss is the famous fishing tackle counter.

Paul
403.153I gotsta knowWMOIS::RIEU_DRead his lips...Know new taxes!Mon Oct 01 1990 17:372
       Where's the 'new sports shop store'?
                                        Denny
403.154VMSDEV::PAULKM::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothMon Oct 01 1990 17:585
In the general Spag's complex.  It's on the same side of the street as the
garden shop, as you go toward the schoolhouse it's on the left just as you'd
turn right to go up the hill to the schoolhouse.

Paul
403.155rip fishing tackle counterRGB::SEILERLarry SeilerWed Oct 03 1990 18:2513
It was always more fun to *talk* about the fishing tackle counter than to
actually shop there -- the new arrangement is a big improvement, once I
relearn where everything is.

But speaking of Spag's renovation, I was in the store a few months ago
and heard a customer complain about the cramped quarters in the shoe
department.  The clerk replied with a detailed explanation of how the
planned new layout would provide more seating space and make it easier
to shop for shoes, when the new sports shop finally opened.  In what other 
store do the clerks know all the details of planned renovations?  

	Enjoy,
	Larry
403.156It ain't the same place it used to be!HPSTEK::BELANGERScurvy sea dogThu Oct 04 1990 11:239
    I was in Spag's last night, and the whole store seemed more roomy,
    and easier to get around (hadn't been there for a month or more).
    Was more pleasant being there, I never liked the claustrophobic
    atmosphere, but did like the deals, which don't seem too good these
    days (I noticed more prices aren't much different than other stores
    these days, which is a big change from days past, when everything
    was much cheaper than any other store...)
    
    Fred
403.157Christmas is coming!LOEDGE::REITHJim Reith DTN 291-0072 - PDM1-1/J9Mon Oct 08 1990 13:061
Fear not the crowds will fill in all available space ;^)
403.158Need a new map!NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Fri Oct 19 1990 14:332
If Paul Weiss can take a few minutes from debating building codes, could he
update the map in .11 to take into account the new sporting goods building?
403.159VMSDEV::VMSDEV::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothFri Oct 19 1990 14:458
    Not really.  I've only been there once since the change, and I don't
    know exactly where everything's moved.  From what I could see, though,
    everything else is pretty much where it used to be, there's just more
    space for it.  If you just remove all the sporting goods from that map,
    and figure that adjacent goods have expanded into the sporting goods
    areas, it's still pretty accurate.
    
    Paul
403.160VMSDEV::PAULKM::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothFri Nov 16 1990 12:2624
Spag's is about the best you can get as far as service after you buy...

I bought a DML dovetail router bit there last spring to do the sliding 
dovetails on my cabinet drawers.  What with summer projects, I didn't get 
around to using it until last weekend.  The bit broke where it thins down into
a narrow neck just below the dovetail.  So yesterday I brought it back to 
Spag's.  I didn't have a sales receipt, I didn't even have the little plastic
case the bit had come in.  All I had was the broken bit.  I brought it in and
explained the situation, and the guy immediately replaced it with a new one,
no questions asked.

Even though it's 50 miles away, I'll keep buying stuff there.

While I was there I noticed two things:  One, they have the Hitachi 8" sliding
compound miter saw on sale for $399, which is a great price.  Their regular
price (the best I've seen) is $469.  Fine Homebuilding loved it when they
reviewed miter saws.  Unfortunately, the sale ends tomorrow.  The other thing
I saw was a "last one" 2HP Unisaw (no unifence) for $999.

Could someone who goes there frequently post a note here next time the Delta 
dust collector goes on sale?  Their regular is $329, which is a very good 
price, but I've heard of them selling it for about $289.

Paul
403.161HQ store in Shrewsbury now openSENIOR::HAMBURGERWhittlers chip away at lifeSun Mar 31 1991 23:3824
    I put this here because I coundn't find a generic "store" note, and 
because this store is close to Spag's and probably worth a trip.

    HQ is now open at the intersection of rt 140 and rt 9 in Shrewsbury. 
Close to the SHR plant, it is on the westbound side of rt 9. It has a side 
entrance onto the access road to rt 140 so you can reverse directions 
whatever direction you come from. 

    I was in there Friday nite. Big store, with lots of nearly everything 
you are going to look for when fixing or improving your home. I did not do 
a lot of pricing, I left my reading glasses at home. I expect a few real 
good bargains as they establish themselves. My guess is that they will go 
head to head with Spag's on some stuff, and kill Somerville and Grossman's 
in the process. Store claims to be the size of 2 football fields, be 
forwarned!

    No grand opening yet, probably within the next week or so. Friday nite 
was not packed, so I had time to stroll thru the place at my leisure.

    I have no interest in the place other than it being one more place to 
spend my money.....

    Vic H
403.162It should be interestingEPOCH::JOHNSONIf we build it, they will come.Mon Apr 01 1991 11:115
It looks like they're going head-to-head with *everyone*, including Spag's, by
advertising lowest price on everything *plus* a 10% reduction if you find it
lower elsewhere.  Goodbye, SL and Grossman's and (possibly) Spag's hardware.

Pete
403.163SPAG's needs a kick in the pants on prices anyhow.HPSTEK::HAUSRATHToo many projects, not enough timeMon Apr 01 1991 11:296
    
    Ah, but do they have free delivery?  Not owning a truck, I've often 
    bought at Somerville because I would never be able to get it home 
    otherwise..  
    
    /Jeff
403.164KOALA::DIAMONDNo brag, Just fact.Mon Apr 01 1991 14:026
    
    If the competition gets too rough, then Spags will cut their prices.
    If push comes to shove, Spags has the potential to beat anyone's
    prices.
    
    Mike
403.165NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Mon Apr 01 1991 14:335
My experience with Builders Square is that you can save a few bucks on
commodity items if you have written evidence (newspaper ad, etc.) of
a lower price.  For small amounts, it's probably not worth the hassle.
From what I've seen of BS and HQ, they don't have the selection or
quality of Spags or Somerville.
403.166Some minor ComparisonsESD77::FARRELLBlack Pearl Express Trucking, LTD.Mon Apr 01 1991 15:5611

Was @ HQ last weekend and compared the price of a light fixture, HQ wanted
$32.00, Spags was $15.00.  Also compared a 220v 4000w wall mounted electric
heating unit.  HQ was $93.00, Keystone Electric Supply was $65.00.

FWIW, the place didn't look that busy either...

/J


403.167HQ looks pretty goodRGB::SEILERLarry SeilerMon Apr 01 1991 16:3242
I visited HQ in Shrewsbury this morning, and I was impressed.
I'll have to go over my price comparisons carefully, but it
looked to me as if their price/quality is overall much better
than Sommerville Lumber -- and they have a lot more selection.
The place is HUGE!!!

For example, they had shop lights with ballasts at under $9.
At Spags, they used to be $15 and are now $10.  The last time
I was at Sommerville, they just had the kind without ballasts,
on sale for $10.  On the other hand, Spags has peat moss on 
sale at $6, whereas HQ ss selling it (non-sale) for a couple 
of dollars more (I left my price sheet in my car).  5"x5"x8'
landscape timbers were a bit less than Spags special price,
and *dramatically* less than at Sommerville and Grossman's, 
but, oddly enough, more than at a hardware store near me 
(Caldwell's in Berlin, who beat out everyone on that one item).

Their delivery policy is $15 within 15 miles for orders from
$100 to $399, plus $1/mile for over 15 miles.  Delivery for 
orders of $400 or more costs $15 less (i.e. free within 15 miles).

Another thing.  The sales help were as deliberately friendly as
I've found anywhere.  At the second encounter, it was clear that
they were all told to say hello to any customer who even hestitates
while walking by.  It made it a lot simpler to ask for help, and
it's quite a change from Spag's, where the clerks are all very
friendly if you can get their attention.  I'm sure things will
change at HQ, though, as they build customer volume.

One thing I'm curious about -- when they say they'll give 10%
off anyone else's lower price on the "same item", how similar
does the item have to be?  Exact same brand?  Or functionally
the same (e.g. 5 cubic feet of peat moss)?  I forgot to ask that.

My initial conclusion is that if I know they have what I need
at Spag's, I'll still go there.  But if some of what I want is
at HQ and some is at both, I'll probably just buy it all at HQ.
I don't expect to ever go to Sommerville again, and I never did
go to Grossman's.

	Enjoy,
	Larry
403.168QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centMon Apr 01 1991 17:4917
Re: .170

Regarding the price-matching policy - Builders Square has the same policy 
(find a lower price and we'll match it plus give you a 10% credit).  I
tried to get BS to match Somerville's price on 250 feet of 12/2 Romex, and
they wouldn't, saying it was a different brand.  It was, but I considered
this a commodity item, and if I had been the manager, I'd have matched the
price rather than lose a sale.  I said fine and headed up to Somerville.


Re: general

I have not been overly impressed with Spags for hardware.  I've found I have
to be very aware of prices, as they are high on some things and low
on others.

		Steve
403.169Gotta know pricesASIC::MYERSMon Apr 01 1991 20:1617
    I live down near the HQ in Norwood and find that it's pretty good. 
    Having only a Grossman's nearby, it really does blow it away.  I've
    seen that the formally packed parking lot at Grossman's now has quite a
    few empty parking spots.
    
    As with anyplace, you just have to know price.  I've seen things at HQ
    that are much less than other places, but then again, more. An example
    of better price is a halogen pole lamp I bought there for $37.77, I saw
    the EXACT same one (same brand, etc) at Lechmere for $59.99.  As far as
    tools go, HQ doesn't carry the better brands (IMHO) like Porter-Cable,
    AEG, etc.  So, I think that Spag's wins hands down on that aspect,
    also, Spag's carries Benjamin Moore paint and HQ doesn't.
    
    All in all, HQ is convenient and they take plastic and checks, but I think 
    Spag's will be able to hold their own.
    
    Susan
403.170Wheel DealBASBAL::FALKOFTue Apr 02 1991 10:4312
    SL is the most convenient to me and I have found that they will match
    prices. Example: SL's usual FullView storm door is $279 and it was on
    sale at Grossman's for $219 (SL's usual sale price is 229). Sales rep
    calls Grossman's to check price AND if there is a delivery charge. In
    my case, there was a delivery charge of $25 or so, so the SL rep takes
    $219 + $25 and offers me that price. I said no deal, I'll wait for a
    regular SL sale and the free delivery. So he wrote the slip at $229 and
    I got the free delivery.
    
    I suspect most places can deal a little, but they need to be pushed.
    And having a printed ad in hand makes pushing easier. Sort of like
    buying a car ;-)
403.171HQ-Nashua later this yearFREDW::MATTHEShalf a bubble off plumbTue Apr 02 1991 15:237
    
    HQ will be opening in Nashua late summer or early fall on the south
    Daniel Webster (traffic snarl) Highway.
    
    This is just north of the Pheasant Lane Mall and JUST south of
    Grossman's.  I rather expect that the latter will only be true for a
    short while.
403.172CUPMK::PHILBROOKCustomer Publications ConsultingTue Apr 02 1991 17:411
    What is HQ?
403.173NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Tue Apr 02 1991 19:164
Home Quarters.  There are three major national "home center" chains that
I know of -- Builder's Square (owned by K-Mart), Home Quarters (owned by
Hechinger) and Home Depot (owned by Home Depot?).  They've all made their
move into New England recently.
403.174Home Depot in south NashuaCROW::MATTHEShalf a bubble off plumbWed Apr 03 1991 11:025
    
    Ooops.
    
    reply 174 should have said HD - Home Depot moving into south Nashua.
    I didn't realize there was an HQ and a HD.
403.175HQ in WOrcester, also coming soon ..AHIKER::EARLYBob Early, Digital ServicesWed Apr 03 1991 13:3412
re: 255.176                        Spag's???                         176 of 176
>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>Home Quarters.  There are three major national "home center" chains that
>I know of -- Builder's Square (owned by K-Mart), Home Quarters (owned by
>Hechinger) and Home Depot (owned by Home Depot?).  They've all made their
>move into New England recently.

Which will also include Home Quarters in Worcester, Ma on Plantation Road,
according to the Ads in the Worcester Telegram

-BobE
403.176HQ - a great place to see what's availableEPOCH::JOHNSONIf we build it, they will come.Thu Apr 04 1991 12:499
403.177More competition for Spags?RAMBLR::MORONEYShhh... Mad Scientist at work...Thu Apr 04 1991 13:306
I've heard ads on the radio for some other new place in Shrewsbury (forgot the
name) that's about to open that sells surplus building materials.  Anyone know
more about them? Do they sell stuff that normal homeowners would use or is
it stuff for commercial builders?

-Mike
403.178Could this be it?ZENDIA::REITHJim Reith DTN 226-6102 - LTN2-1/F02Thu Apr 04 1991 13:536
    I'm not sure if this is who you heard about but my sister works at
    Howlett Lumber in Charlton (and Holland) and they are going to open a
    Bargain Bay in  Shrewsbury sometime soon. They have one near the
    Charlton store and it is sort of a scratch and dent sale place. Sheet
    goods with dinged corners, mis-ordered custom windows, one of a kind
    vanities/cabinets... You get the idea.
403.179RAMBLR::MORONEYShhh... Mad Scientist at work...Thu Apr 04 1991 16:355
re -1:

The name "Bargain Bay" sounds right.  Thanks.

-Mike
403.180It's on route 20 just west of South StreetSEURAT::NEWMANChuck Newman, 297-5499, MRO4-1/H16, Pole J13Fri Apr 05 1991 12:096
It's on route 20 just west of South Street (where Digital/Shrewsbury is
located).  I drive by it on my way to work.  The signs have been up for about a
week, but I can't tell what stuff they have.  I was thinking of stopping in on
Saturday.

								-- Chuck Newman
403.181Anyone Get the 10% Yet?HPSCAD::FORTMILLEREd Fortmiller, MRO1-3, 297-4160Wed May 22 1991 00:053
    At HQ, has anyone successfully received the 10% off the better price
    in another store (and particularly off Spag's price)?
    
403.182remember to bring the competitor's ad!!!DEMON::BOBBIN::CHALMERSSki or die...Wed May 22 1991 13:5611
    Not to get into an HQ rathole in the Spag's note, but...
    
    yes, I scored bigtime with an HQ pricematch of a Somerville Lumber
    advertised price on some Armstrong ceiling tiles. HQ's rack price was 
    (approx) $37/carton. SL's advertised price was approx $32/ctn. HQ sold
    me the material for approx $29/ctn (90% of SL's price). Since I
    purchased 10 cartons, I saved more than $80! 
    
    FWIW, on numerous occasions I've also gotten price matches at HQ on
    various items, but nothing close to the dollar volume of my ceiling-tile  
    experience.  
403.183Saved about fifty on a "Forever Door"ASDG::SBILLWed May 22 1991 15:187
    
    My fiance' and I bought a "Forever" storm door from them about a month
    ago. I don't remember all the numbers but we saved about fifty bucks.
    We've been back a couple of times and they haven't adjusted their price
    on that item. The competing price was from Sommerville Lumber.
    
    Steve
403.184What about the Nashua HQ mentioned earlier?MEIS::TOWNSENDErik S. Townsend (DTN) 247-2436Wed May 22 1991 15:2015
Someplace in this topic, somebody announced that HQ or another similar store
with near-spags prices was to open in the new mall just south of Grossman's
in Nashua, NH.

Can anyone confirm or deny this? I keep looking for a sign to spring up, but
don't see any, and the mall looks like no vacancies exist for that large a
business.

There is a Service Merchandise, perhaps that was confused with a HQ-type
store? It looked like the Service Merch. was a regular one, not a home
improvement specialty one.

Anybody know?

Erik
403.185Home DepotSTAR::DZIEDZICWed May 22 1991 15:274
    There is a "Home Depot" being built next to the Pheasant Lane
    mall (south of Grossman's).  I've seen the "coming soon" signs
    but no date as to when it will open.  The building is mostly
    steel girders at this point.
403.186QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centWed May 22 1991 17:356
Yes, Home Depot is one of the anchors of the "Willow Springs Mall" being
built just north of the Pheasant Lane Mall.  Other anchors are
Barkamian jewelers (building further along) and Marshall's.  If you thought
traffic in South Nashua was bad now, just wait till this new mall opens!

			Steve
403.187Another future HQ or HQNAC::MICKALIDEThu May 30 1991 16:544
    There are also plans to build either a HQ or HD in Salem NH according to
    an article I read. There are negotiating for the Parcel of land that 
    currently is occupied by the Fireside motel and the seafood restaurant.
                                                                      
403.188NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Thu May 30 1991 17:282
I'd guess it's HQ, since it's relatively close to the HD that's going up
in Nashua.
403.189EVMS::PAULKM::WEISSTrade freedom for security-lose bothFri Sep 27 1991 18:333
Does Spag's have bulbs in yet?

Paul
403.190NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Fri Sep 27 1991 19:012
Unless you're asking about light bulbs, you might try PICA::GARDEN.
I'd be surprised if they don't have them yet.
403.191Spags bulbs are inSTEPS1::COUTUREAbandon shoreFri Sep 27 1991 19:011
    Yup!
403.235SPAGs Contarctor Tool Sale-Wk of 4/6/92AKOCOA::SELIGMon Apr 06 1992 12:598
    FYI....Spags is having one of their big "contractor" tool sales this
           week. Two page add in Worcester Sunday Telegram.  Mostly power
           tools by Delta, Porter Cable and Bosch. Didn't see many Makita
           or Milwaukee in the ad.
    
           BTW, both Home Depot and Home Quarters in NH will match Spags
           advertised prices AND discout an additional 10%. You do need 
           to present an ad which indicates IDENTICAL make and model #'s
403.236ENABLE::glantzMike @TAY 227-4299 TP Eng LittletonMon Apr 06 1992 13:5010
> Spags is having one of their big "contractor" tool sales

> Didn't see many Makita
> or Milwaukee in the ad.

Hmm, I only took a quick look, but I thought I saw a Makita drill
(model 6404 -- not a cordless) and the Milwaukee Sawzall on sale. The
Sawzall was only (if I recall) $6 less than the regular price, which is
always a good deal, anyway.

403.237SALEM::PAGLIARULO_GReality is a cosmic hunchMon Apr 06 1992 16:124
    Can someone tell me if the Porter Cable Biscuit Joiner is on sale and
    for how much?
    
    George
403.238QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centMon Apr 06 1992 16:296
Hammar Hardware in Nashua is having a "Makita day" this Thursday - I didn't
notice if they had special prices on Makita tools, but they would have
"Miss Makita" there starting at 3PM handing out autographed calendars!  (I
had thought this sort of thing had gone out with the 1970s, but I guess not...)

				Steve
403.192The end of the world as we know it!!?SCHOOL::RIEURead his lips...Know new taxesWed Oct 07 1992 12:486
       Well, I suppose we all knew deep down that someday it would come to
    this!
       According to today's Worcester T&G, Spag's, beginning today, will
    accept VISA and MC! And, starting Nov 1, will be open on Sunday! What's
    next. Bags? Order from chaos!!?
                             Denny
403.193QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centWed Oct 07 1992 14:294
You missed reporting that they're probably going to start accepting personal
checks soon.  It's a sign that the economy and competition is finally hurting.

			Steve
403.194PATE::MACNEALruck `n' rollWed Oct 07 1992 15:095
403.195Coincidences aboundCADSYS::FLEECE::RITCHIEElaine Kokernak RitchieWed Oct 07 1992 15:256
I can't help but wonder if the death of Spag's wife had anything to do with it.
She was the treasurer of the enterprise, and I have heard that she was the
brains behind its success.  I wonder if she was opposed to checks and credit
cards, so they couldn't make the change while she was alive...

Elaine
403.196SCHOOL::RIEURead his lips...Know new taxesWed Oct 07 1992 15:302
       Where's COSTCO going to be located?
                                     Denny
403.197Scheduled to open in DecemberPATE::MACNEALruck `n' rollWed Oct 07 1992 15:323
403.198in the old days....ELWOOD::DYMONThu Oct 08 1992 09:246
    
    the reason they didnt take check or cards is because
    before it was easy to pass a bad check or card.  So
    they got burnt to often.
    
    JD
403.199First they moved the tackle counter from its historic spot...LYCEUM::CURTISDick &quot;Aristotle&quot; CurtisThu Oct 08 1992 14:0116
    .201:
    
    My guess was that their "cash only" policy reduced or eliminated:
    
    --  losses due to bad checks or cancelled/stolen cards
    --  the overhead of cashing checks (I *think* that the banks charge
    	merchants per check) and the bank charge for credit (3% to 4%,
    	I think it used to be)
    --	the 'overhead' of the additional time spent in line dealing with
    	non-cash payments;  increased throughput at the checkout might
    	translate into fewer cashiers.
    
    I assumed that all this accounted for a respectable portion of the
    lower prices there.
    
    Dick
403.200NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Thu Oct 08 1992 14:236
Banks probably cut special deals for accounts of Spag's magnitude, so I doubt
if they'd pay a per-check charge.  Credit card charges for large merchants
are quite low these days -- probably less than 1%.  And with on-line
verification, credit cards are quick and safe.

BTW, the changes at Spag's have been discussed in NOTED::MASSACHUSETTS.
403.201QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centFri Oct 09 1992 12:575
Businesses don't get charged for depositing checks, but most businesses with
any smarts will subscribe to a check verification service which guarantees
the check, and this costs something (though less than credit cards).

			Steve
403.202NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Fri Oct 09 1992 13:233
re .204:

Fleet Bank charges per item for deposits into business money market accounts.
403.203SOLVIT::TOMMYB::BERKNERWonderful person.Wed Oct 14 1992 19:073
The three banks I've dealt with in NH have charged from .10 to .25 per item 
deposited in a checking account - including cash (any quantity of cash is 
considered a single item).
403.204no checks at SpagsCPDW::PALUSESWed Oct 14 1992 19:195
    
    Spags' isn't taking checks, just plastic.
    
    Bob
    
403.205watch the overhead signsSENIOR::HAMBURGERLife is a Do_It_Yourself project!Wed Oct 14 1992 20:027
    
>    Spags' isn't taking checks, just plastic.
    
    Spag's does, as predicted by several folks, have separate CASH ONLY 
lines available for those with liquid assets to spend....

    	Vic
403.206QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centWed Oct 14 1992 21:359
    I had said that the article suggested that they would accept
    checks in the future.
    
    And yes, there do exist checking accounts which charge for deposits,
    but they tend to be the ones with very low minimum balances.  I've
    never had such an account.  I can't speak for business accounts,
    but charging for deposits has always struck me as counterproductive.
    
    			Steve
403.207JUPITR::HILDEBRANTI'm the NRAThu Oct 15 1992 11:023
    They will take some kinds of checks for items over $1000.
    
    Marc H.
403.208RTL::LINDQUISTThu Oct 15 1992 17:258
403.209When is Spag's next big tool sale?SSGV01::CHALMERSMore power!Thu Oct 22 1992 14:2810
    Anyone know or suspect when Spag's will hold its next "big tool sale"?
    Is it a regularly scheduled event? Once per year? Twice? More often?
    
    Need to make a decision and purchase a new cordless VSR drill/driver,
    but am willing to wait for the next Spag's sale if the prices are really
    as good as people have mentioned.
    
    Thanks in advance.
    
    Freddie
403.210No obvious schedule.....SENIOR::HAMBURGERLife is a Do_It_Yourself project!Thu Oct 22 1992 20:1219
             <<< Note 255.212 by SSGV01::CHALMERS "More power!" >>>
                    -< When is Spag's next big tool sale? >-

>    Anyone know or suspect when Spag's will hold its next "big tool sale"?
>    Is it a regularly scheduled event? Once per year? Twice? More often?
    
    Spags seems to run a tool sale when a mfr gives them an allowance or 
other promotional consideration for doing so. They run different mfrs at 
different times. One week might be Delta, another time Ryobi, another time 
Makita. Sometimes they seem to run a "tool-fest" that offers lots of stuff 
all at once, including the infamous Norm Abrams from TBS fame on site to 
answer questions and work the crowd. (Please, don't start on Norm again)

    Best bet is to watch the Worcester Telegram and Gazette Sunday Paper. 
If you don't get that, then just hope that someone mentions it in this or 
the tools notesfile. Tools will OFTEN have someone mention that Spags is 
having a sale on such and such this week.

    	Vic
403.211SPAG SALES ALERT distribution listSSGV01::CHALMERSMore power!Fri Oct 30 1992 11:405
    Followup to my reply .212
    
    FYI...Someone in the NOTED::WOODWORKING_AND_TOOLS notes file has
    graciously volunteered to compile a VAXmail distribution list in order
    to notify interested noters of upcoming Spag's sales. See note 1768.
403.212end of an eraMICROW::GLANTZMike @TAY 227-4299 TP Eng LittletonFri Oct 30 1992 12:3818
>            <<< Note 255.210 by JUPITR::HILDEBRANT "I'm the NRA" >>>
>
>    They will take some kinds of checks for items over $1000.
>    
>    Marc H.

  Yes, that's always been true. My wife was there last week, and
  mentioned seeing one of their oriental rugs priced at $32,000. Marked
  down from $60,000. She figures they'd take a credit card for that,
  now.

  When she told me about the new VISA/MC policy, I was shocked and
  saddened (mainly for fear of long checkout lines). She assured me it
  seems to be well under control.

  God, I love that store. I would pay a premium to shop there rather
  than give my business to CostCo, HD, HQ, or any other of those giant
  impersonal discount chains.
403.239Ryobi BT3000SMURF::AMBERWed Nov 04 1992 14:558
    I just paid $432 for the Ryobi BT3000 with stand and video at
    Home Depot in Nashua.  Builders Square had it advertised for $480
    with stand, but they said it was a misprint - stand not included.
    Home Depot complained the B.S. price was below cost, but when I showed
    them the ad, they said $480 less 10 percent.  I thought it a pretty
    good deal.  The Build Sq ad said price good through Nov 10 and the
    Depot had a bunch last nite.
    
403.240NOTIME::SACKSGerald Sacks ZKO2-3/N30 DTN:381-2085Wed Nov 04 1992 15:405
Sounds like a good racket.  Store A advertises an item below cost.  Since
they have a disclaimer about typos, they can claim it's a typo.  Store B
promises to match (or beat) advertised prices.  They have no way of knowing
that Store A has claimed it's a typo and won't actually honor the price.
It's a good way for Store A to cause Store B to lose money.
403.213AutomationCTHQ1::DELUCOCT, Network ApplicationsThu Nov 12 1992 14:326
    re long checkout lines for credit cards:  the speed dialing and
    automatic registers (with speed dialing, verification built in) have
    really cut this down to where using a credit card is nearly as fast as
    using cash...assuming the store uses these updated systems.
    
    Jim
403.214PATE::MACNEALruck `n' rollThu Nov 12 1992 16:093
    I haven't seen any impact on the lines with the introduction of credit
    cards at Spags.  They have plenty of cash only lines and the credit
    card lines do move quickly due to the reasons stated in .216.
403.215Phone number for spags ?NOTAPC::RIOPELLETue Jun 06 1995 14:454
    
    Anybody have the phone number for spags ?
    
    
403.216See .97XELENT::MUTHI drank WHAT? - SocratesTue Jun 06 1995 15:060
403.241FYIPIET01::GILLIGANMon Feb 26 1996 16:163
    Mr. Borgatti passed away on friday.  He was 79.
    
    Brian
403.242WLDBIL::KILGOREStop Global Whining!Mon Feb 26 1996 18:006
    
    It was mentioned in the local paper that he started the business with a
    $25 loan. Quite an ROI!
    
    I wonder where his funeral will be...
    
403.24318 yearsCSLALL::NASEAM::READIOA Smith &amp; Wesson beats four aces, Tow trucks beat Chapman LocksMon Feb 26 1996 20:076
>    Mr. Borgatti passed away on friday.  He was 79.
>    
>    Brian


Ninety seven, not seventy nine
403.244QUARK::LIONELFree advice is worth every centMon Feb 26 1996 21:273
I think 79 is correct.  Also, the loan was $35, but so what...

			Steve
403.24519096::BUSKYMon Feb 26 1996 22:5912
    Spags was born on Feb 29th, 1916, a leap year baby. He was about
    a week shy of his 80th birthday.

    The loan was $35, from his mohter, so that he could open a
    fireworks stand at the current location. You could say the
    business skyrocketed! ;-)

    The store will be closed Tuesday for the funeral.

    He was quite a man and will be missed. :-(

    Charly
403.246SMURF::MSCANLONa ferret on the barco-loungerTue Feb 27 1996 13:498
    That's a shame.  He was a very nice man.  My first husband worked
    for him at his home/offices for many years.  He was very good
    to us when we were starting out.  He and his wife came to
    our wedding and reception.  They got more attention than
    we did :-)
    
    Mary-Michael
    
403.247spags price check?MKOTS3::COUTUREGary Couture - NH Consultant - SalesThu May 02 1996 17:5310
Can a Spag's Regular visitor do me a favor???  I'm moving into my new house 
soon and will need a lot of paint, etc.  I'm trying to decide if its worth
the drive to spags.  I understandf they carry Benjamin Moorre paints.

Could someone check on the price of Benjamin Moore AquaGlo (their top of line 
egshell latex) at Spags?

thanks

Gary
403.2482082::LIONELFree advice is worth every centThu May 02 1996 18:224
Since you work at MKO, check out the price at Nashua Wallpaper and Paint in
Nashua.  They can be quite competitive, and you save the MA sales tax.

				Steve
403.249MAET11::SEGERThis space intentionally left blankFri May 03 1996 12:249
I just picked up a gallon of the aquaglo pearl (I think that migh be a step
above eggshell and one below semi-gloss) a couple of weeks ago.  it was on
sale then for around $15/gal.  a LOT cheaper than the $25+ the local paint
store sells it for.  I think spags regular price in it is around $19 or so...

alas, this data is a couple of weeks old, so it may be back to the $19 price
by now.

-mark
403.2502082::LIONELFree advice is worth every centFri May 03 1996 12:364
    My recollection is that the Nashua Wallpaper and Paint price is right
    around $20 (tax-free).
    
    					Steve
403.251Prices for annuals?MSE1::SULLIVANWed May 29 1996 13:5414
    Has someone been to Spag's to buy annual flowers recently?  Are they
    selling in 6 packs or 4 packs this year?  At what price?
    
    I've seen 4 pack annuals at Home Depot and HQ for $0.98.  Spags usually
    has 6 packs for about that price.  I'm on my own with three kids this
    weekend and I'm trying to figure out if it is worth the trip to Spags
    to make out annual impatiens purchase.  Planting is a fun project with
    the kids but taking them to the crowd at Spags is no fun unless it is
    worthwhile.
    
    Thanks for any info.
    
    						Mark
    
403.2524 pack annuals are 0.66$ now at Home Depot...UHUH::CHAYAWed May 29 1996 15:470
403.253Snowblowers at SPAGS ???CSCMA::BALICHMon Sep 09 1996 18:096