[il-talk] Manna Orders

[Bruce C. Paul]

Hi All,

Manna has come up with an idea to allow everyone in our federation to participate in the process of ordering certificates.  The link below connects to a page that describes their new web based program.

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=5sa5ilcab&v=001Qll-Xe3DdxHgPSRPVxs7Mn--bFlxUKeAL5SeRw5TUrrxys_2-IundryHOCHkEKwJuv2_J3S7vFqMxkziXxgZw1aePo5GnKYz8gZWEUjKUHSHQMxQU5_ylbZBB69G3YFZOEsO5KdVTXqIzobIllQM9pjsXwU0swcHmB_rUo91QPs%3D

A few points on their new program: 

It is not apparent they ever expect only individuals to complete all orders, since the federation can only profit from this arrangement by submitting a subsequent order.  Further, the shipping charges will diminish the benefit any individual order might derive.  Finally, I expect the reward any group might experience from this program will decrease over time, since no one will make sure all orders are submitted in a timely manner etc.  I did want everyone to be aware of this program though, so we might have an informed discussion in the future.

I will not enable this program without a clear desire by Patti and the rest of the affiliate that I do so.  IMHO, such a program could only work, if the affiliate received a direct reimbursement from Manna for your orders.  I'm guessing something about their being a clearing house for these certificates does not allow this kind of reciprocal transaction.  Also, the vendors themselves might see this as selling their cards for less than face value.

In any case, your orders are due by November 6th, 2010.  I will start calling people next week.

Regards,
bcp