SF Weekly Article on Yelp

Elite '12
960 friends
1027 reviews

3/10/2009 phil h. says:

Funny, she interviewed me for close to an hour and kept digging for dirt...as I didn't make the article I guess I wasn't controversial enough for her.

3/10/2009 Clinton K. says:

I heard that Phil...some things were better left unsaid.

141 friends
221 reviews

3/10/2009 Beau G. says:

Yeah, she didn't use any of the stuff I said either.

http://is.gd/mOaz

Phil, Clinton, we're just not hot enough for SF Weekly.

Elite '12
960 friends
1027 reviews

3/10/2009 phil h. says:

She kept asking me about reviewing venues that held Yelp events - I told her that Yelp actually encouraged Yelpers to review the event (and even send out a link to do so) and discouraged reviewing the venue based on the event itself. But that's a boring answer.

141 friends
221 reviews

3/10/2009 Beau G. says:

She asked me about using being a Yelper as a reason to get good service or discounts.

I told her I never did that and that it was frowned upon. Didn't make the article.

Elite '12
201 friends
132 reviews

3/10/2009 Sharon "Daisy's Mama" J. says:

There are over 75 references to Yelp on SF weekly.

I know from personal experience that when you get a negative review on Yelp, you also get a call from their advertising department with an offer to remove it for a "small sponsorship fee".

7 friends
4 reviews

3/10/2009 Matthew "Kingsley" K. says:

hahaa..im reading it now....anyone remember when was it jeanny b did the date on craigslist and then got ravaged as a attention whore..haha funny!!

302 friends
393 reviews

3/10/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

anyone read the comments of he article? well said "amelie", well said

3/10/2009 Cliff B. says:

from the article,

"Yelp Elite Squad members are often invited to special events announced only to them."

***

what the hell, you guys are partying behind our backs?!

3/10/2009 Cliff B. says:

The writer was pretty mean to Janney. If she didn't get to look at that article beforehand, that is....well, I'm speechless.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/10/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

and janney was sweet to her the whole time. fuck that

103 friends
369 reviews

3/10/2009 T A. says:

Oh Andrew.. "sweet" doesn't get anyone anywhere in this world.

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

This is the same woman who came to the Scorpion Bowl outing, right? The same woman who flirted shamelessly with Beau the whole evening? Who we bought drinks for?

I agree with "Amelie." Pretty low blows to both Janney and Anna.

141 friends
221 reviews

3/11/2009 Beau G. says:

Yep Devon. Same girl. I still have her business card.

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

I think it's a fair article.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

what a bitch

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Fair would be to paint yelpers in some sort of positive light, rather than the condescending tone that Smiley uses. Fair would be to address the positives that can benefit businesses in more equal format than just a few toss-away lines at the end of the article. Fair would be to not be a total **** when bringing up things like eating disorders.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Brandon "Support your local business owner" M. says:

I think it's a fair article.
-----------
um, ok....

Elite '12
366 friends
925 reviews

3/11/2009 Gil "whoo hoo" S. says:

Cliff B. says:

what the hell, you guys are partying behind our backs?!

------

Yes, and they serve meatballs there... I mean, meatballs are sacrificed and eaten.

37 friends
320 reviews

3/11/2009 Eric G. says:

Yelpers are Yelp users. We do not represent Yelp, we represent our own reviews. If someone says something negative about Yelp, that's their problem, not ours.

If someone says something negative about Yelp, likewise it does not reflect on us as individuals.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Fair would be to paint yelpers in some sort of positive light, rather than the condescending tone that Smiley uses. Fair would be to address the positives that can benefit businesses in more equal format than just a few toss-away lines at the end of the article. Fair would be to not be a total **** when bringing up things like eating disorders.
-----------
dont listen to that moron, devon

346 friends
614 reviews

3/11/2009 Herra Chink y. says:

I don't know Anna K or Janney B but the article does make them sound pretty vapid.

And honestly, let's not deny ourselves. The entire "narrative around a review" thing is what gets fans and is totally self-promotional and egocentric to some degree. We're all guilty of it, Yelp wants us to write like this.

I think Nish told me once, something like, "Herra Chink, it doesn't matter what you write, it's that when you review something, it makes other people want to review stuff too." Or something to that extent. Then he went on about some metric they use to measure users called "click throughs" or some market-speaky thing like that. Who knows.

Anyways, whenever we throw our personal shit out there, we deserve whatever attention we get, whether that attention is positive or negative. That's life on the internet and life in general. It's the exact same thing as someone on a reality show whining about being misrepresented because of "editing". They can't edit what you don't give them.

Elite '12
366 friends
925 reviews

3/11/2009 Gil "whoo hoo" S. says:

Anyway, she and I exchanged messages about an interview, but when she was evasive about what the article was going to be about and what her angle would be, I politely stopped responding to the email. SF Weekly is already a big danger sign, it's not exactly known for journalism. Lacking writing ability, insight, and other journalistic skills, or much money to actually investigate things, they often just make up stuff that sounds controversial so they can be edgy.

A few rules of PR:
* Know the publication you are being interviewed for
* Know the person who will be interviewing you and writing the story - what else have they written? What is it like?
* Ask them what the story is about, what they will interview about, why, and what their take / angle is. These are fair questions.

Otherwise you might just find someone who wants to make a joke or a point at your expense, as she did to Janney. There is no way Janney said those things about herself, and there is no way the journalist did the background research to investigate Janney's life just to say that crap. So obviously she paraphrased and took Janney's words out of context to make her look bad, just so she (the reporter) could score some creative writing points. It's irresponsible, dishonest journalism.

I hope this is a lesson. When you read anything in the press, and the writer seems hard hitting, insightful, has all kinds of surprising facts, ask yourself if they really know what they're saying, or just made them up.

40 friends
136 reviews

3/11/2009 Dolores T. says:

A scandalous bitch if I ever saw one. Didn't even change the names of yelpers. No journalistic integrity.

Elite '12
152 friends
356 reviews

3/11/2009 Kevin "Double Oh Yelp" N. says:

Meh, I assume that made it to print, as well? I am so down on the media lately, at least articles covering either local news or local flavour. It's no wonder they're getting their ass kicked by online content. Simply put, it's more thoughtful and better researched.

Evidently, only the AP and Reuters can even approach writing a decent article nowadays.

Elite '12
366 friends
925 reviews

3/11/2009 Gil "whoo hoo" S. says:

New Yorker is pretty good. And the Chron has some good columnists.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

seriously dolores, who the fuck just name drops like that? i hope she got her mustache waxed at tru spa...

40 friends
136 reviews

3/11/2009 Dolores T. says:

Hater, trifling ass bitches, thats who!

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

my favorite part of the article

"There's the core of Yelp which is in their 20s and 30s that drink a lot and like to hook up," the chef says. "They're basically a bunch of self-centered twits."

so not true! well...

40 friends
136 reviews

3/11/2009 Dolores T. says:

Weeeellllll, that is partially true.

If he wanted to be 100% right he would have said we are desperate for validation and attention as well... Or maybe he has, I haven't finished reading the article.

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

The thing is, MOST people in their 20s and 30s are self-centered twits, and anyone who feels differently is probably lying to themselves. I don't think Yelpers are any different in that regard.

As for using Janney and Anna's names, it's possible that they gave permission to do so. I wasn't there for the second outing to Cigar Bar so I can't comment on the tactics that may have been used there, but I was there when Smiley came to Trad'r Sam's. She was nice, talking to everyone (yes I am fully aware that this is what reporters do), drank our alcohol that we bought (not purchased by yelp), and as mentioned before, spent a long time flirting with Beau. Not talking. Flirting. This is my naivete talking, but that article was a total 180 from what I expected.

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

Gil "whoo hoo" S. says:

Anyway, she and I exchanged messages about an interview, but when she was evasive about what the article was going to be about and what her angle would be, I politely stopped responding to the email. SF Weekly is already a big danger sign, it's not exactly known for journalism. Lacking writing ability, insight, and other journalistic skills, or much money to actually investigate things, they often just make up stuff that sounds controversial so they can be edgy.

A few rules of PR:
* Know the publication you are being interviewed for
* Know the person who will be interviewing you and writing the story - what else have they written? What is it like?
* Ask them what the story is about, what they will interview about, why, and what their take / angle is. These are fair questions.

Otherwise you might just find someone who wants to make a joke or a point at your expense, as she did to Janney. There is no way Janney said those things about herself, and there is no way the journalist did the background research to investigate Janney's life just to say that crap. So obviously she paraphrased and took Janney's words out of context to make her look bad, just so she (the reporter) could score some creative writing points. It's irresponsible, dishonest journalism.

I hope this is a lesson. When you read anything in the press, and the writer seems hard hitting, insightful, has all kinds of surprising facts, ask yourself if they really know what they're saying, or just made them up.

------------------------------ ------------------------------ --------------------

Although I don't think this article in any way gives a fair representation of who Janney, Anna, or Yelp really is (and it seems people are only focusing on one page, but that may change), I think that there was some naivete on a lot of our parts, including myself. I spoke to her twice, although I guess I also wasn't interesting enough (although I did review "my mom"- which made it in there- yay for me).

The thing about Janney is that she lays herself out there (figuratively, not literally- she's an american prude, after all) in her reviews. My guess is that reporter read most, if not all, of their reviews before taking what she thought would be the most scandalous parts to put in her article. That's what sucks about writing on the internet, even if you write something that is lighthearted and fun, the words themselves can be used against you.

In regards to the "she drank our alcohol" argument, that's like saying a guy paid for a girl's dinner, so she has to put out. Sure, we were nice enough to share those Scorpion Bowls, but we're just nice overall. That didn't make it in the review. Many of us go to these Elite events, get our free booze, and are not always nice to the establishment either at the time or in a later review. Most of us are, but there are exceptio

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

I'm not saying she HAD to write nice things, I'm just saying I'm surprised that when it came to the actual yelpers she was very very critical, even though she was partaking in the same activity that we were.

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

anyone seen the king of snark, Darin I, around here lately?

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Matt "MK" K. says:

hahaa..im reading it now....anyone remember when was it jeanny b did the date on craigslist and then got ravaged as a attention whore..haha funny!!
_________________
Haha... I don't think I know about this! Someone enlighten me please!

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

there's no such thing as bad press, right?

27 friends
546 reviews

3/11/2009 Chris C. says:

Interesting reading. Only things that comes to mind is the old saying that "The Best Lies Are Half Truth". The bashing of Janney and Anna are definitely uncalled for. But I do think that's she does make a point that the trend for reviews are more about narratives about a Yelper's personal life than so about reviewing the place. Also while still a minority, that we are hearing more and more often Yelpers threating a negative review to get either free food or better service.

141 friends
221 reviews

3/11/2009 Beau G. says:

Despite any flirting that went on between me and Lauren Smiley I haven't spoken to her since the Scorpion Bowl night. Janney told me she described me as "metrosexual," which I took as a sign to avoid her.

376 friends
310 reviews

3/11/2009 Suge K. says:

didn't everyone know it was going to end badly?

http://www.yelp.com/to...

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Ha! Yeah Suge, I wrote that tongue in cheek, mostly because I figured the chance of something bad being said so slim based off of her behavior. Ug. Bubble popped.

324 friends
1410 reviews

3/11/2009 Uncle Fishbits Aeneas "My reviews are even more better" X. says:

Economist article not involved with yelp at all... but about reviews:
Fair Comment
http://www.economist.c...

interesting. Also interesting how a room fool of 200 social media experts in travel, hospitality and F&B and not one mention of yelp in two days. I wonder how relevant yelp is outside of SF?

368 friends
900 reviews

3/11/2009 Drue "sleep is overrated" C. says:

I was interviewed by Lauren as well. For a long time. She asked a lot of straightforward questions but I also caught her trying to guide my comments by asking questions like "So, what you are saying is Yelpers all like to drink a lot?", which I corrected quickly, as those were not the words I used.

Lets face it. Anyone who has been to an Elite event, or a happy hour or even smaller events with friends they have made from Yelp have to admit they are a complete shit show at times. Not always, but our demographic like to live it up a little. A lot of the behavior I have seen form my fellow yelpers at times has been less that flattering, myself included. This can be spun very easily in the direction she took it.

Also, there are a lot of pretty unfair reviews out there, people on their soapbox, just pissed off. Is this the majority? No? Does the article make it seem like it is? Yes. So, bad on Lauren for not representing the majority of users instead of aiming for the extremes and looking for behaviors that she could exploit. However, if you are willing to put your business out there, whether in a drunken night or a harsh review, and dish some harsh criticisms yourself then you should not be so shocked and offended when you receive them in return.

Lauren will feel the heat of what she said, and is subject to criticism just like anyone else who says (or writes) something for everyone else to hear. Different camps will defend the behaviors of those they side with, regardless of how much truth and how much exaggeration the story, or review, held.

People who aren't prepared for this it should probably not yelp, or drink.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

"Frank Klein, an S.F. restaurant consultant, says he once persuaded a diner at the old Original Joe's who was threatening a bad review for an undercooked steak to let them redo it instead."
________________
This sentence is just one example of the poor writing she has. Screw content, she writes like a high schooler. Actually, I wrote better than that in High school.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

For instance, you have to have actually have firsthand experience with the business to review it.
__________
I can't resist. It's so bad! LOL

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

I'm surprised nobody has yet mentioned the Panthea J. episode in the article. That is extortion, plain and simple -- she demanded material goods to 'fix' a bad review. Seriously, that may be close enough to the real thing to be illegal.

I thought the article was better than any other I've read about Yelp. It fairly addressed the accusations about trading sponsorship for getting rid of bad reviews (for what it's worth, and based on all of the articles and comments in Talk, I think it's probably the case that some Yelp salespeople do promise this even though they can't come through).

I don't know Janney or Anna, and I didn't think they came across particularly badly in the article. Like it or not, it seemed like a fair description of their Yelp personas.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

True, some poor writing. But still, content-wise I think this article was far superior to most.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

This is news?

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 CK S. says:

gwynnie p. says:

there's no such thing as bad press, right?
----------------
we have a winner!

368 friends
900 reviews

3/11/2009 Drue "sleep is overrated" C. says:

Looks like a case of bad editing, which reflects badly on SF Weekly's editing department. I would venture to guess that each of us has a few grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors within the last 5 pages of our reviews. I know I have found a few in the reviewer that slammed Lauren for hers.

Just playing devils advocate. After all, SF Weekly is an actual publication, and we are not professional writers (though I am getting a sense that everyone here wants to be taken a bit more seriously in that regard).

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

I agree with Robert P. This article is better than most of the ones written about Yelp. Which may not say that much, but still...and I don't know Janney or Anna really, but I know and like and appreciate Janney's online persona, as it were, and whatshername seems to somewhat accurately try to distinguish between teh interwebz and real life.

368 friends
900 reviews

3/11/2009 Drue "sleep is overrated" C. says:

Gwynnie - if you took the snark out of everything I said you would probably get what you said. You're so nice.

327 friends
117 reviews

3/11/2009 Anna "Make it a Double" K. says:

The only criticism I have of the article is that Ms. Smiley fails to point out that Janney and my reviews are clearly meant to be tongue-in-cheek, and at no point do we expect others to take us seriously. We mentioned this to her several times, but she neglected to add that disclaimer.

I'm totally ok with being called a floozy. Hell, my own father called me a lush! But I am not, nor have I ever referred to myself, as "dumb", thankyouverymuch. I don't mind criticism, but I'd appreciate a little accuracy. I wrote *1* review where I explicitly pay homage to my favorite authors; I don't do so routinely. For a "reporter", Lauren Smiley probably should have done a little more research.

Hokie dokie, I'm off to get a cocktail, pretend to forget my credit card, and make some poor chump pay for it.

(KIDDING.)

368 friends
900 reviews

3/11/2009 Drue "sleep is overrated" C. says:

Anna - you have a great attitude about all of this. I expected I might have been sitting there along side you in that article, and would have been amused more than anything.

327 friends
117 reviews

3/11/2009 Anna "Make it a Double" K. says:

Thank you Drue :)

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Anna -- I thought she conveyed the idea that you sort of put on an act on Yelp. Although it seems obvious that Yelp is like Halloween -- they both allow people to do things that kind of want to do all the time... (cue Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors").

3/11/2009 Clinton K. says:

My only complaint about the article is that there was no mention of the awesome furry costume I was wearing that night.

Seriously though, the author does refer to Anna K. and Janney B. as online persona or alter-egos or something, so it doesn't seem that her intention was to "defame" these girls, but rather to provide perspective into the life of a Yelper to non-Yelpers.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

I completely agree with everything that article had to say about Janney.

The truth hurts sometimes...doesn't change the fact that it's the truth.

3/11/2009 Mister J. says:

It's the SF Weekly.

The same paper that bums have a 1001 uses for (including as toilet paper). So, I wouldn't be losing any sleep over something published in the paper that is still butt hurt over supporting Matt Gonzalez for mayor.

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

I agree that Jeremy is "photogenic." His sibling is also "photogenic."

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

I hate those "Me" generation claims. Bleh.

1641 friends
497 reviews

3/11/2009 Janney B. says:

I met with Lauren Smiley a few different times and chattered away about how I Yelp responsibly and understand the effect a negative review can have on a small business. She mentioned that she didn't expect me to be so nice and warm in person, but her mind must have already been made up.

I'm not whining about this article, but I don't like how things got twisted to make me sound like a trainwreck. I would have appreciated a stronger contrast between my real life and my online life. Also, I have NOT dated "many yelpers." There are a lot of minor discrepancies woven into this story to make it meatier.

And, Kyoraku - you must not know me in real life, because i'm a very nice person.

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

This post has been flagged as inappropriate by the community and has been removed.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Janney -- where is the divide between "real life" and "online life"? What makes one more "real" than the other? I'm not sure what the answer is, but I think it's a relevant question.

But don't stress -- I thought you and Anna came across fine.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Jesus, what crawled up Kyoraku's ass?

Elite '12
169 friends
221 reviews

3/11/2009 Valeria "Raised Chancla™ (credit to bh)" R. says:

6 minutes ago Mister ""Elite" is the new whore" J. says: It's the SF Weekly. The same paper that bums have a 1001 uses for (including as toilet paper). So, I wouldn't be losing any sleep over something published in the paper that is still butt hurt over supporting Matt Gonzalez for mayor.
*******

What Mr. J said.

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Kyoraku = Janney's Ex Boyfriend

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:
"You're also a shallow whore too. Seriously, how many guys from Yelp have you hooked up with?"
_____________________________

Jealousy is poisonous to the soul.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

"Chez Panisse currently has the same rating as Taqueria El Farolito -- 4.5 stars."
___________________________

That just shows you what people like...and if you're a cost per value person...it probably deserves the same rating. I think I'm gonna try this taqueria.

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Farolito has a great avocado taco that is perfect for 2 AM runs.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Amy -- yeah, that comment about Chez Panisse and El Farolito makes not sense. Reviews are about quality without regard to fanciness. I'll take a cheap meal at Henry's Hunan over an expensive meal at Boulevard anytime (almost).

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Well... hmmm... so I've finally read that whole article (Loooooooooooooong). And I just took a nap after it (loooong). And all I can really say is that as much as Smiley seems uneducated, I guess she did her job. I can't really say anything bad about what she says about people in the review (sorry guys) because of my scathing review at Seattle's Best and the jerk that works behind the counter there. All I can say is that we all have online personas and we're not the same as those personas. I once got a bad review for a part I did - ok... that never happened... but if it did happen, it's just a comment on my performance and not me. I wouldn't worry too much... people are going to say bad things, whether it's out loud or in print, it's being said either way.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

You're also a shallow whore too. Seriously, how many guys from Yelp have you hooked up with?

Oh wait, you'll just lie about that and play the integrity card. Don't bother replying. We all know who you really are.
________________
You're joking right?

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

It is funny how defensive yelpers get when someone reviews them.

1641 friends
497 reviews

3/11/2009 Janney B. says:

I've never ever ever slept with a Yelper.

Robert asks, "where is the divide between "real life" and "online life"? What makes one more "real" than the other?"

Good question, Robert. In my daily life, I am a number cruncher. I work with spreadsheets and calculators and wear suits and stand up straight and am very polite. Online, I pretend to be silly and egocentric and make "your mom" jokes... I think this type of writing is funny, but would never even consider saying those things in person.

It's easy to critique what others write, but I hope you take my words at face value and know that all of the Yelpers (including Anna K. and Panthea J.) were not accurately portrayed.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/11/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

who effin really cares!?! it effin yelp and the SF weekly for crying out loud!

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

First off, she's the reporter, she doesn't have to tell you her goal. Second, she didn't have to go incognito, you gave her info freely and our writing is on the web. Third, Janney, Anna and Yelp got great press and in the end there's more positive being said than negative. It's like everything out there, if you don't like it, don't read it.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

I predicted lies, and that's what I got.

No surprise.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Bewb Z. says:

Wait... does having a lot of sexual partners make one a shallow whore?

Sunuva....
_______________
+1000000000000000000 LOL

565 friends
290 reviews

3/11/2009 Lauren "praising the Sun God" C. says:

Kyoraku, considering you have no reviews and one compliment which only says, "cruel", I'm assuming you're not only a total ass but that you're a troll. Fuck off!

57 friends
207 reviews

3/11/2009 Yanny "cheap before it was chic" S. says:

Wow. Reading the article was like reading a middle school gossip column. Fluff.

565 friends
290 reviews

3/11/2009 Lauren "praising the Sun God" C. says:

Clinton, I'm bummed that she didn't mention your furry outfit too! it was fabulous! hehe

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

I totally agree with Lauren ;). No reviews? Why be on Yelp and criticize and hide identity?

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Janney B. says:

Good question, Robert. In my daily life, I am a number cruncher. I work with spreadsheets and calculators and wear suits and stand up straight and am very polite. Online, I pretend to be silly and egocentric and make "your mom" jokes... I think this type of writing is funny, but would never even consider saying those things in person.
------------------------------ -------------
I get that. Respectfully, you're missing my point. I understand that you act differently online than you do in person. But what makes your online persona any less "you"?

70 friends
175 reviews

3/11/2009 Gerald "insensatez" C. says:

Janney "Meal Ticket" B. says:

I've never ever ever slept with a Yelper.
-----------------------------
A woman has to have her standards.

248 friends
301 reviews

3/11/2009 Sara "Let My Elite Status Lapse" F. says:

(Telltale signs: passing around plates at the table, lots of foodie talk, and snapping photos to later upload to the site.)

ha!

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

It's the internet. Stop taking it so seriously.

If you feel the need to combat the opinions of a completely anonymous person with whom once you close Yelp you will have no affiliation with, then I truly pity you. Your lives must be extremely boring, and void of anything interesting if you take the internet that seriously.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Brandon "Support your local business owner" M. says:

I totally agree with Lauren ;). No reviews? Why be on Yelp and criticize and hide identity?
_______________
because unlike people like janney, they are too scared to put their face out there for people to see. It's easier for them to talk shit behind other's backs. Look at my profile pic, I'm singing "Kyoraku, you're a fucko!"

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

It's the internet. Stop taking it so seriously.

If you feel the need to combat the opinions of a completely anonymous person with whom once you close Yelp you will have no affiliation with, then I truly pity you. Your lives must be extremely boring, and void of anything interesting if you take the internet that seriously.
_______________
Yet important enough for you to banter back at! The irony of your own comment! Love it!

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Kyoraku says:

If you feel the need to combat the opinions of a completely anonymous person with whom once you close Yelp you will have no affiliation with, then I truly pity you.
------------------------------ ------------------------
I'm a lawyer, so I'm very familiar with bad writing, but for the life of me I cannot untangle that sentence.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

Personally, I'm offended. I never talk about my genitalia or gay sex. Bitch.

248 friends
301 reviews

3/11/2009 Sara "Let My Elite Status Lapse" F. says:

just the same old shit over again. think the east bay express's article on yelp. i don't understand why there needs to be an article by the east bay express and then the next month, an article about yelp in the sf weekly. give it a rest, guys!

102 friends
6 reviews

3/11/2009 Locks B. says:

@ Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S.

Seriously. You're a lame coward. Your heart pumps Kool-Aid.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

Irony? No I'm merely making truthful statements that everyone seems devoid of acknowledging that are actual fact. The stems of the argument come from those who wish to combat me and deny the points I am making.

Denial is a funny thing.

339 friends
261 reviews

3/11/2009 Perci N. says:

Janney got smeared. =/

But outside of the personal attacks, the article is pretty spot-on at giving the Yelp "experience." So what if Yelp is 20 and 30 year old self-centered twits. Most 40 and 50 year olds Americans are self-centered twits as well. They just don't look as hot.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/11/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

OK, i'll admit that the unflattery take on anna and janney was effed up. :{ but lauren is a reporter, and she can't report on boring stuff, that's not what her editor wants.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

Irony? No I'm merely making truthful statements that everyone seems devoid of acknowledging that are actual fact. The stems of the argument come from those who wish to combat me and deny the points I am making.

Denial is a funny thing.
______________
Well... they're more opinion, which makes you just the same as everyone on here that you're talking bad about. Janney is just expressing "truths" as well, but I guess when it comes to you, everything is ok because you don't have a picture..

And thanks for the denying us of your picture.

248 friends
301 reviews

3/11/2009 Sara "Let My Elite Status Lapse" F. says:

wow she really did a number on janney!

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

Yelp, Real people, real reviews. It says it right there on top. Do you guys think I follow some unidentifiable person when I travel for places to visit?

3/11/2009 Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

This post has been flagged as inappropriate by the community and has been removed.

119 friends
47 reviews

3/11/2009 Anna "Pants Free Patton" P. says:

Oh man. I was feel so sad for Anna K. (who I heart) and Janney B. , and then I read this:

Darin "..." I. says:

Personally, I'm offended. I never talk about my genitalia or gay sex. Bitch.

And I laughed soooooo hard. Nail on head! hahah Darin I., your reviews are priceless.

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

Well, let me educate you Ky. You can criticize which is good for this community, but when you hide your identity, you get to say what you want without immunity. You can own the restaurant and give it all positive. Don't let the door hit you.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/11/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

has anybody thought about reviewing the SF weekly reporter, lauren simley? wouldn't that be touche? :O

295 friends
353 reviews

3/11/2009 Brandon "Support Your Local Businesses" M. says:

Wow, he got flagged.

3/11/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Janney, having met you I can say that I see right through her attempts at making you look shallow or whatever she was trying to do. She just came off as a catty bitch who doesn't understand your self deprecating humor.

And I want to know which Darin I is supposedly writing about his genitalia. Does she mean the brilliant, well read pocket rocket Darin?

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

Elrod...I think that is a lovely idea.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

I have a new recent love in Darin I. his reviews have me rolling today! Thank you Darin. You're one of my new heroes.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

Oh, for the record, I was never contacted or interviewed by Lauren Smiley for this article.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

elrod "kiss me, i'm a douche bag" m. says:

has anybody thought about reviewing the SF weekly reporter, lauren simley? wouldn't that be touche? :O
____________
Amazing idea!

665 friends
133 reviews

3/11/2009 Junglist S. says:

Flood her and the paper with protesting emails.

3/11/2009 Mister J. says:

Why not just review the SF Weekly?

Look, the SF Weekly and yelp are competing for the same ad revenue dollars, so it's not surprising that the SF Weekly would go out of their way to do a smear campaign on one of their competitors. That's not to say that yelp is perfect and innocent either, but there's a lot more bullshit coming from one side than the other in this situation.

I'm just waiting for Yelp to get mentioned in The Onion (another ad revenue driven enterprise) for the trifecta.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

Drue "sleep is overrated" C. says:

Gwynnie - if you took the snark out of everything I said you would probably get what you said. You're so nice.
============================== ============

This is why she likes Matilda better than me.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Draysen, I would love to fillate your fillet.

3/11/2009 KayJay .. says:

NOW this thread is entertaining.

33 friends
24 reviews

3/11/2009 Susan B. says:

Exactly. So glad I have the email updates turned on.

565 friends
290 reviews

3/11/2009 Lauren "praising the Sun God" C. says:

bahahaha!

Wow, I picture running away from this guy on the corner of Larkin & O'Farrell.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Hey, I live at the corner of Larkin & O'Farrell :(

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

"....a god damn circle jerk of faggotry that renders my soul sick."

That' got a nice ring to it.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

\m/ PAIN TIME \m/

.

.
.

empty text to get past the caps lock b.s.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

Why do I feel like I've dated someone on this thread before?

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

I am highly offended that Draysen's chain does not have the appropriate bling. Jesus fail.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

Draysen, could you turn around and bend over so I could confirm your identity for sure?

119 friends
47 reviews

3/11/2009 Anna "Pants Free Patton" P. says:

Damn, I better head to the gym.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

Darin "The King of Snark" I.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

You can't get better advice. Draysenator rules your asses. And he loves cat pictures.

324 friends
1410 reviews

3/11/2009 Uncle Fishbits Aeneas "My reviews are even more better" X. says:

Amazing how every paper that reports on yelp is bad at journalism. Or the reporter doesn't know what they are talking about.

Wait... maybe it isn't about the papers. What if all this negative press isn't about bad journalism at all?

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Harry A. says:

yelp has its problems but nobody reads SF Weakly

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Ooh ooh. I want real workout trips from a guy with REAL STRENGHT.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

Now I know why I only needed to hook up once.

676 friends
679 reviews

3/11/2009 graceypoo m. says:

wow, that shit had me CRACKIN' UP!

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

9 minutes ago Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

I am highly offended that Draysen's chain does not have the appropriate bling. Jesus fail.
================
Hahahahahaha. You have to give him points for at least spicing things up.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

It's 'worout tips'. Not workout.

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

Pffft. Jalapeno?! Poser! That's not even THAT hot of a chili.

324 friends
1410 reviews

3/11/2009 Uncle Fishbits Aeneas "My reviews are even more better" X. says:

please do not flag draysonator. Some of the more intelligent discussion I have seen in a bit. =)

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 KayJay .. says:

Oh, snap. Is House on tonight?!?!

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Bewb, wait till he tells you how he found Yelp.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

218 friends
117 reviews

3/11/2009 Bobby H. says:

The SF Sleazy is just that. For years they have been using the lowest form of strong-arming to sell advertising. Even offering drugs and sex. They are a large corporate entity with papers all over the US. They use ruthless tactics as evident by the lawsuit the Guardian won against them for 15M last year. All of SF should boycott the sleaze bag paper. Better yet, every time you pick up a Guardian, also pick up a Weekly and throw the Weekly in the trash.

Elite '12
1021 friends
415 reviews

3/11/2009 Devon "Completely Appropriate™" F. says:

Anyone else see "BAWWWWWW MEAN ARTICLKE" as "BAWWWWWWW MEAN ARTICHOKE?"

550 friends
391 reviews

3/11/2009 Amy "Let's Go Giants baseball...I don't do football" R. says:

I'll bite Robert too. Come here, you.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/11/2009 d "..." s. says:

I never played in my mommy's basement so that's one thing we don't have in common, Draysenator.

3/11/2009 Don B. says:

SF Weekly ignored me... maybe I should give them ONE star! (hruumph)

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

A moment ago Amy "Valeria = Just Plain Crazy" R. says:

I'll bite Robert too. Come here, you.
===============
PAIN TIME!!

70 friends
175 reviews

3/11/2009 Gerald "insensatez" C. says:

Draysen +1

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

I gotta go back to work now?

FML.

103 friends
369 reviews

3/11/2009 T A. says:

I dunno Dray, the gym stresses me out...all those sweaty germs and people pissing me off. I prefer to walk the lake and do Carmen Electra's strip tease aerobics.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Dammit. He's probably back to benching his body weight.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

for all the people that say "who cares?", most of us could give a shit about what she wrote regarding yelp. a lot of it is stuff we already knew about, a lot of it is stuff i could give a rat's ass about. although she does come off uneducated(as mentioned by others) when she assumes that a fancy restaurant should automatically be rated higher than a taqueria. good food is good food.

what irks us is the bashing of certain yelpers. janney, anna, panthea, and even darin were all protrayed wrongly. and she basically bashes janney for 2 pages. but i agree that we were all a little naive, bcause we see this shit all the time in the real world. never trust a reporter.

she was a fugly bitch anyways

218 friends
117 reviews

3/11/2009 Bobby H. says:

Did I scare him off? Sorry

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

Draysen "THE DRAYSENATOR" F. says:

BAWWWWWW MEAN ARTICLKE

well gues what fagttos its real... welcome to a reality othar than your mommys basement faggots. this how the real world views you fuckin fagts. Like a bunch of sickinin whores with cum all on the face. GUESS WHAT FAGGOTS TONIGJHT ILL BE HITTIN IT UP WITH THE BITCHES while you are doing what? OH RIGHT SUCKIN A COCK AND CRYIN WHIEL WATCHIN HOUSE MD OR SOME FAGGOT SHIT AND CRYING. THEN TIME FOR A JACK SESSION. THEN SLEEPY TIME so you can be well rested for your faggots cricel jerk to resum in the morning on this faggot sight. pathetic. get in the gym faggots then ,aybe you wont be so fuckin pathetic. look at me i can bench my own weight faggots. get ready to dide faggots i got all you IP and I will fucki you beyond reality, one by one.. your dead faggots. PAIN TIME FAGS

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Ugh, back to my boring life, sans Draysenator.

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

wait....can i go to yelp jail for cutting and pasting?

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

worout time!

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Robert "no cummupance for me!" H. says:

Dammit. He's probably back to benching his body weight.
______________

You mean all 25 pounds? =P

3/11/2009 b e. says:

PS: I heard the draysenator was getting done doggy-style in the castro the other day. Good trusting source! LOL

205 friends
867 reviews

3/11/2009 Patricia "Hon of Hons" H. says:

Uh-oh - Dray is angry. Look out, my friends!

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Draysen "THE DRAYSENATOR" F. says:
OH RIGHT SUCKIN A COCK AND CRYIN WHIEL WATCHIN HOUSE MD OR SOME FAGGOT SHIT AND CRYING. THEN TIME FOR A JACK SESSION. THEN SLEEPY TIME
==============================
Wow. I'm beginning to think the Draysenator has multiple personality disorder.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Whoever made the Draysenator troll deserves a medal.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Andrew T. says:

she was a fugly bitch anyways
------------------------------ ---------------
You sound like a nice person Andrew.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Andrew -- how did she portray Panthea wrongly? If the facts in the article are true, it sounds to me like Panthea engaged in extortion.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Robert P. says:

Andrew T. says:

she was a fugly bitch anyways
------------------------------ ---------------
You sound like a nice person Andrew.
---------------
thanks, i try

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

Try harder.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Get harder.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Robert P. says:

Andrew -- how did she portray Panthea wrongly? If the facts in the article are true, it sounds to me like Panthea engaged in extortion.
------------
they're dumb enough to send her free shit, then they shouldnt complain about getting screwed over. and considering the other stuff written, it was probably only half true...

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

The "getting screwed over" isn't the issue I have a problem with. It's the extortion in the first place.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

well according to the article itself, panthea never asked for the items. they offered it. it doesnt sound like she sent them a message demading free shit. how is it extortion when you are being offered the goods?

0 friends
0 reviews

3/11/2009 Robert P. says:

I don't think it matters who makes the initial offer:

"Yes, if you send me a free arrangement, I would be happy to provide feedback and, though unsolicited, would be happy to revise my review accordingly."

It sounds to me like she was being cute -- saying she'd change the review for some free shit, but wording it carefully so as not to sound like that's what she was doing.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/11/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

Andrew "elitist prick" T. says:

well according to the article itself, panthea never asked for the items. they offered it. it doesnt sound like she sent them a message demading free shit. how is it extortion when you are being offered the goods?
--------------
she accepted the first free bouquet and never updated her review. that's what i read, the rest is the business or owners fault.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

maybe the free stuff she got was only 1 or 2 star worthy

240 friends
248 reviews

3/11/2009 Sus.annah "does interpretive dance" B. says:

Ah. Now that I've posted a comment on that article, done some work, eaten a slice of free pizza (which had everything to do with my hard-working nature and not because North Beach wants me to write a good review of them), and saw some of what the Draysenator wrote before he got bumped I feel much better.

The reporter had that article written long before she actually interviewed anyone. She sort of tried to make it sound like she was keeping an open mind I suppose, and the SF Weekly isn't exactly a bastion of neutral reporting anyway, but the article was lame. And with that, I have to work now, or my post will be as long as her article.

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

Sadly, much like America's Next Top Model, if you put yourself out there, there is the possibility that you are going to be edited in a way that you don't want to be.

This is true for anything- whether it be a small article or a reality t.v. show.

3/11/2009 b e. says:

Andrew "elitist prick" T. says:

maybe the free stuff she got was only 1 or 2 star worthy
_____________
Ta da! Exactly what I was thinking!!

3/11/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Pam, you don't need to bring your epilepsy into this!

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

I'm a burn victim who stands on the street corner talking about Jesus, Jessica. It's really horrible that I get edited as the bish who can't make it all the way down the runway.*

*No offense to burn victims, street corners, Jesus, Jessica, or runways.

Bishes are fair game.

282 friends
496 reviews

3/11/2009 Gracie "Princess Honeybee" B. says:

Snooze...please wake me when there is an interesting NEW story about Yelp and Yelpers. I don't know...one that says that we're all old, selfless, sober people or something. It's just not exciting to see one more reporter make generalizations.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

50 minutes ago Bewb Z. says:

I think if like 400 of your posts get removed within an hour, you probably get deleted.
===========================
He'll be back in a month.

3/11/2009 Cliff B. says:

My only issue is whether the reporter contacted Yelp or the two women to give them the opportunity to comment on the article. When I used to write for newspapers, that was the policy in my departments.

3/11/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Cliff, I don't think anyone asked for your fucking input.

Jesus Fucking Christ.

3/11/2009 Cliff B. says:

god, you are such a whore, jessica.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Wait. Which one is the lush-ho?

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

Robert "no cummupance for me!" H. says:

Wait. Which one is the lush-ho?

------------------------------ ---------

Before Mike Z makes his list, I'll just step in and say it's me.

343 friends
307 reviews

3/11/2009 Justin "L'écriture et la différence" C. says:

Wow. That was an interesting read. Did the reporter get permission to use Yelpers' real names?

I did like parts of the article. My main problem with it was the Chez Panisse - El Farolito comment. That is NOT HOW I WRITE my reviews. Every single establishment has the opportunity to get 5-stars in my book. If I have absolutely nothing to complain about, loved the complete experience, and want to recommend a place, I give out the 5-stars. Coffee shops do not automatically deserve a low rating in my book, but whatever. To each his own.

Because everyone uses different standards, it's not really fair to generalize how Yelpers do things. But just so y'all know, I think the real dipshits are the ones who had a perfect experience at a place yet give a place 1, 2 or 3 stars just because of some dated notion of restaurant "class". I'm perfectly fine giving Mina's a 1 star and Bob's donuts 5. It all depends on the experience, not the reputation or the average cost of an item.

This ain't Michelin. This is Yelp, damn it! :)

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Pam "Goddess of Fierce" B. says:
Robert "no cummupance for me!" H. says:
Wait. Which one is the lush-ho?
------------------------------ ---------
Before Mike Z makes his list, I'll just step in and say it's me.
=====================
Thanks. Always like to keep up on my Yelp put upon personas.

9 friends
4 reviews

3/11/2009 Seamus "NutFlap" M. says:

~yawn~

53 friends
9 reviews

3/11/2009 Rosti "potatoes" b. says:

Lauren Smiley truly did her job right though...because what are we doing? Playing into her game and talking about the article.

Terrible press, terrible writing, terrible article, but spot on for getting us to bitch and moan and complain.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

she's completely reading this too. she read the other thread that devon started

3/11/2009 Mister J. says:

Wait, wait, WAIT.

So who are the Yelp sluts again?

*clicks pen and pulls out notepad*

429 friends
206 reviews

3/11/2009 wendella a. says:

Well, having your writing compared to Kurt Vonnegut's (as the reporter did with Anna K.) isn't too shabby. The point about how a taqueira or a fine dining establishment can both get 5 stars (and how that isn't right) is off in my opinion - Yelp isn't the Michelin Guide as others have already stated. Each individual business is reviewed on its own merits - for what it is - by the population at large. I can see how that grates the foodie elite, but Yelp doesn't pretend to be otherwise.

As for Janney - yes, she had some barbs thrown at her. Price one pays for being an open book to a reporter. However - this publicity can only help her if/when she does write her "Yelp memoirs". That is a guarantee. This might be the best publicity she could get in that regard.

Have to wonder what the hell David Gingrass from Two was thinking and whether those remarks were meant to be "off the book". Talk about biting the hand that feeds you! Not the brightest bulb in the lamp.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

28 minutes ago Mister ""Elite" is the new whore" J. says:

Wait, wait, WAIT.

So who are the Yelp sluts again?

*clicks pen and pulls out notepad*
===================
Pam laid claim to this title already.

3/11/2009 Mister J. says:

Surely there's more than one.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/11/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

when I first saw Lauren Smalley, or whatever the hell her name is, I thought it was Lurch from the Adams Family in drag. I noticed she was trailing Janney and Anna around like crazy, and I TOLD YOU Janney not to trust her!!

Janney and Anna should not have had their full names published like that, I think that's really outrageous. What a crap article.

3/11/2009 Robert H. says:

Probably D.L. whores, Mr. J.

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

I am not a slut, I'm a ho.

I'm pretty sure there is a difference. Maybe.

I'll check the notches on my bedpost and get back to you.

53 friends
9 reviews

3/11/2009 Rosti "potatoes" b. says:

No, Pam, you are definitely a slut.

:D

Slut just has a better ring to it!!!!!

Lauren Smiley, what a terrible last name. Easy, too.

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

Wendella I don't think Smiley necessarily talked to Gingrass....I think those are old comments from that Karen Solomon/SF Magazine article....

3/11/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

376 friends
310 reviews

3/11/2009 Suge K. says:

that article was as poorly written as a yelp talk thread or review.

Elite '12
23 friends
1134 reviews

3/11/2009 Fannie "FoodieFan" S. says:

This article gives some of us good Yelpers a bad name. I've had so many 'free' offers so I can give 'better' ratings, but I have never, ever taken them up on the offers. It seems like BRIBERY to me. I want to rate on honesty/genuine performance, not on forced issues. If you (the business) have a problem with the review, then I suggest you fix it, instead of trying to bribe me. *rolling eyes*

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/11/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

Aimee, I actually like hussy the best.

3/11/2009 Mister J. says:

Oh wait, I'm a slut too.

I forgot.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/11/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

Princess Buttercup " " C. says:

when I first saw Lauren Smalley, or whatever the hell her name is, I thought it was Lurch from the Adams Family in drag. I noticed she was trailing Janney and Anna around like crazy, and I TOLD YOU Janney not to trust her!!

Janney and Anna should not have had their full names published like that, I think that's really outrageous. What a crap article.
-------------
now they can be googled by prospective employers and the article will pop up. if i were them, i'd contact a lawyer for some advice. i hope they were smart enough not to give SF weekly the permission to use their real names.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/11/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

Suge, you forgot to put a preposition where the end of the sentence is at.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/11/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

now they can be googled by prospective employers and the article will pop up. if i were them, i'd contact a lawyer for some advice. i hope they were smart enough not to give SF weekly the permission to use their real names.
______________

that's what I was thinking too, she pretty much called them vapid, alcoholic sluts. Which would be an instant in with me if I had my own business, but not so much for other employers.

3/11/2009 Laura J. says:

My take, is that it was Yelp who came off poorly, with the suggestion they shake down businesses and take advantage of a situation which they created where self important posters deliver them free content while going overboard creating personas for social climbing purposes and other benefits. Aside from the Yelp Dating Diary book idea, I didn't find myself thinking poorly of any of the Yelpers mentioned. Just a non-Elite's perception. Since so many of you are taking this personally, I thought it worth mentioning it was probably more damning to the Yelp itself then it's members. Not much of a comfort, I realize.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

pam, dont be modest. you are such a slut

princess, yeah i thought she was a man too. and even as a man, she was kinda fugly

3/11/2009 Harry A. says:

I read it. Fair representation. The first half of the article is interesting. Second half is boring. The florist mentioned is pretty dumb. Definitely gave more attention to those that desperately seek it.

846 friends
147 reviews

3/11/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

I love watching these threads grow...rise....expand....like a flaccid penis into a full thronged hard up boner.

3/11/2009 Fuck Face P. says:

I missed the Draysenator??? FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!

3/11/2009 Fuck Face P. says:

Locks B. says:

@ Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S.

Seriously. You're a lame coward. Your heart pumps Kool-Aid.
------------
+100,000,000

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Kyoraku is Lauren Smiley's fuck-buddy

Elite '12
693 friends
695 reviews

3/11/2009 Jaime "I fight for the User" C. says:

just as an FYI you guys...Janney isn't writing a YELP dating guide. Lauren smiley made that part up to better her story. I know about this book and it has nothing to do with yelp men. Take into consideration that she has had problems with providing innaccurate data in the past; take what she says with a grain of salt....if that is even what it is worth.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

jaime, smiley was just jealous. obviously. your comment was the best. well said

439 friends
178 reviews

3/11/2009 Lauren "kind of a" C. says:

She contacted me for the article. It took me a while to get back to her, and I assumed that was why I never heard back. Then I saw who she actually ended up talking about. Haha, she obviously just found much more important/interesting Yelpers to talk to! :)

57 friends
146 reviews

3/11/2009 Jon H. says:

i think an easy solution to all of this would be to have yelp divide up reviews into two sections: first-time customers/guest/clients, and longtime regulars. first impressions are definitely important, and i usually try and make it very clear in my reviews if am a regular or a first-timer. it is pretty unfair to a business if they were to get a reviewer coming in on an "off" day, and then get blasted 12 hours later with a 1-2 star review.

i like talking shit, but i try and make it a point to let everyone know not to take me too seriously.

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

So PBC, you're going to let us know when you're in a position to hire, right?

846 friends
147 reviews

3/11/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

this shit is big..bigger than darfur...all that...I need a mover stat!

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

i notice the mover ONLY shows up when KayJay is around....otherwise, he's......um.........busy?

141 friends
221 reviews

3/11/2009 Beau G. says:

Only 229 comments? I'm embarassed.

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/11/2009 gwynnie p. says:

oh beau you wacky metrosexual you

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

lauren, she just contacted you because she wanted you. she cant get any play from men, so she's switching sides.

846 friends
147 reviews

3/11/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

Everyone is talking about this! I mean Kron had it on their online content for like 3 seconds.

429 friends
206 reviews

3/11/2009 wendella a. says:

do you all remember a few months back when the sf weekly lost that huge multi-million dollar lawsuit against the bay guardian? yeah, they were using illegal predatory pricing practices to to drive our real local indie paper - the guardian - under. and they lost big time. they're still settling on the final amount, but its in the multi-millions. nice rag.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/11/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

lol joe, what was on it?

846 friends
147 reviews

3/11/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

eh..can't remember..I was on a lot of vicodin at the time and other drugs

110 friends
98 reviews

3/11/2009 Mark "don't Cry for me Arrrrr-gentina" A. says:

Maybe she wanted Beau to take her to the PowerExchange?

846 friends
147 reviews

3/11/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

uh oh

Elite '12
693 friends
695 reviews

3/11/2009 Jaime "I fight for the User" C. says:

I know that reading philosophy and then quoting it like you're somehow suddenly an expert on the subject is incredibly pretentious and downright idiotic--but I've been reading Essays and Aphorisms by Schopenhauer and came across some pretty great quotes that pertain exactly to this particular situation:

"You should remember that he who writes for fools always finds a large public"

"Newspapers are the second hand of history. This hand, however, is usually not only of inferior metal to the other two hands, it also seldom works properly. The so-called 'leading articles' in them are the chorus to the drama of current vents. Exaggeration in every sense is as essential to a newspaper writing as it is to the writing of plays: for the point is to make as much as possible of every occurrence. So that all newspaper writers are, for the sake of their trade, alarmists: this is their way of making themselves interesting. What they really do, however, is resemble little dogs who, as soon as anything whatever moves, start up a loud barking. It is necessary, therefore, not to pay too much attention to their alarms, and to realize in general that the newspaper is a magnifying glass, and this is only at best: for very often it is no more than a shadow-play on the wall."

And last but not least...

"He must, e.g., be able to take note of the odious opinion of another without feeling his own aroused by it: indeed, there is no surer sign of greatness than ignoring hurtful or insulting expressions by attributing them without further ado, like countless other errors, to the speaker's lack of knowledge and thus merely taking note of them without feeling them."

Now I feel like a douche. Excuse me while I go cut myself while listening to Beethoven's Sonata 3rd movement in a C Sharp Minor.

7 friends
4 reviews

3/11/2009 Matthew "Kingsley" K. says:

1. where are these yelp sex parties?
2. i love how she tried to fit power exchange in there.
3. if sum1 offers me free shit, im taking it.
4. im sorry, but elites are THAT great
5. that article was retarded as do you think a store would sabotage themselves like that?

7 friends
4 reviews

3/11/2009 Matthew "Kingsley" K. says:

aren't THAT great*

56 friends
62 reviews

3/11/2009 Teal "not new here" H. says:

OK, not reading anything above the line. Just stepping in to BITCH on one single facet of this topic...

WHY do they ("journalists" covering this topic) NEVER follow thru on the algorithm? It's simple enough. If you don't write more than 5 or so reviews, your shit won't stick. Period. Fuck. All you've got to do is ask your biz-owning source the name of the person whose 5-star review was removed (you know they can name them) and look up their profile to substantiate. L_A_Z_Y.

I am soooooo over the same criticism being written one hundred times. I even know a couple of folks who think their biz's five-star reviews were removed due to their refusal to advertise (Je m'excuse, "sponsor")... It's just incredibly easy to investigate. Same thing happens to a one-star from a non-yelper. Gimme a break.

I realize this was a small piece of this article, for a change, but it rankles nonetheless.

3/11/2009 Laura J. says:

"Same thing happens to a one-star from a non-yelper. "

I'm slow, can someone explain this one to me. What non-yelper would be giving stars, and where? There are legit reviewers, and then some websites where you can rate things with stars I guess...but this comment confused the hell out of me.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Wow. Way to be an unbiased reporter. I honestly thought this was an opinion piece. As an ex-journalist, I can easily say, a piece like this would NEVER have been published in the paper I used to write for. Or if it was, it would have been plopped right in the editorial section, where it belongs.

Yes, I happen to agree with some of the things she says about Yelp and Yelpers, however, this is supposed to be an article, not a column, and there should be no place in journalism for this sort of slander and name-calling.

Sadly, as we all know, our words are almost always taken out of context and twisted to make us sound how the reporter wants us to sound.

With that said, I thank the lord I'm an inconspicuous, less-than-public yelper who prefers to sip her greyhound in the privacy of her home.

581 friends
424 reviews

3/12/2009 Rachel G. says:

All publicity is good publicity, ladies.

Keep your heads up.

And your boobies too.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Note to Yelpers. next time you're interviewed, bring your own tape recorder.

3/12/2009 KayJay .. says:

gwynnie p. says:

i notice the mover ONLY shows up when KayJay is around....otherwise, he's......um.........busy?
--------------

...

3/12/2009 Clinton K. says:

I just want to address the greatest falacy in PR - that all publicity is good publicity. That is simply not true.

Recent examples of bad publicity would be Kellogs dropping Michael Phelps for smoking a bong, which greatly damaged their brand reputation and Chris Brown beating Rihanna. Believe me, both of these entities would be completely fine if no one knew about this news.

In the case of the SF Weekly article, I'm sorry if these ladies feel "exposed," but the author isn't saying anything that isn't readily available on the user profiles. If anything, this should be a wake up call to you guys. You can put the content out there, but you can't control how people perceive it.

I could tell Lauren Smiley was bad news from the get go. I totally had visions of Katie Holmes from "Thank You For Smoking" and guarded my comments appropriately.

3/12/2009 euge "fanfuckingtastic" l. says:

This post violated the Yelp Terms of Service and has been removed.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/12/2009 Robert P. says:

Sammy -- I think you mean libel, not slander.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Thanks so much for the correct Robert, it was really necessary.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

*correction.* I'm on a roll today

Elite '12
672 friends
146 reviews

3/12/2009 Joshua "Joshua" L. says:

Darin, how do you feel about your one-line mention in the article?

Elite '12
607 friends
837 reviews

3/12/2009 Meg T. says:

I got a nice little blurb.

Yay pineapple!

Elite '12
508 friends
609 reviews

3/12/2009 Pam "PAMDEMONIUM" S. says:

Even "legitimate" news sources get their crap messed up. A few years ago, I was interviewed by a reporter for a big Boston station for one of those "investigative reports". She got the facts wrong even though I gave her actual receipts.

"Pam B. was promised it would cost $900 to move her stuff from Las Vegas to Weston but when the movers, shown in her home video, arrived they told her she owed $1,350 -- five hundred dollars more. "

It was actually Reno, not Vegas, among other things. That was on t.v., not just some dumpy paper.

0 friends
0 reviews

3/12/2009 Robert P. says:

Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Thanks so much for the correct Robert, it was really necessary.
------------------------------ ------------------------------ ---------------
Don't mention it. I just thought I'd save a self-described "ex-journalist" the embarasment next time it comes up.

Elite '12
644 friends
414 reviews

3/12/2009 mary ann "back to jaded" c. says:

Luke "Sings the Standards" A. says:

Kyoraku "Katen Kyokotsu" S. says:

You're also a shallow whore too. Seriously, how many guys from Yelp have you hooked up with?

Oh wait, you'll just lie about that and play the integrity card. Don't bother replying. We all know who you really are.
________________
You're joking right?
______________________________
ugh
never would i give a fu)*& who hooks up with who
seriously what a joke

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

I have only hooked up with Guiness at yelp events. It was all I dreamed and more.

581 friends
424 reviews

3/12/2009 Rachel G. says:

Ugh Robert P.

Pretentious, much?

VOMIT.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Robert, I'm good, but thanks for caring about my feelings by pointing out my slip up.

And next time I'll try not to point out that you spell embarrassment with two r's and two 2's.

3/12/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Oh, it is fucking ON now!

581 friends
424 reviews

3/12/2009 Rachel G. says:

In this corner we have Rammy -- Weighing in at 255 (on a good day)....

376 friends
310 reviews

3/12/2009 Suge K. says:

robert seems a little blue....

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

and by two 2's I meant S'. Honestly. It's like I haven't slept in a week. Oh wait....

581 friends
424 reviews

3/12/2009 Rachel G. says:

hahaha.

I GET IT NOW, SAMMY.

3/12/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

I want a tutu!

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

I need a nap and a journalism textbook to tell me the difference between libel and slander.

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/12/2009 Cliff B. says:

265 posts. That writer is clicking on Yelp Talk and orgasming all over herself.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Man, those are some great reviews.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Too bad we're not even talking about her anymore. We've moved on to embarra22ing me

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

No Bewb. I like the new spelling. There really should be more numbers incorporated into words.

6 friends
4 reviews

3/12/2009 Raven S. says:

How exactly is this talk thread different from when a restaurateur who feels wronged starts bitching in a talk thread? Think of the SF Weekly piece as a very long review and toughen up.

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

6 friends
4 reviews

3/12/2009 Raven S. says:

I think we've all seen people called worse in Yelp reviews.

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

2 minutes ago Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

No Bewb. I like the new spelling. There really should be more numbers incorporated into words.
==========
SOME-one didn't own a beeper in the mid-90s

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

is that where sk8er boi came from?

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

07734

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

143 Bewb.

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

143 means "I love you," right? or is that 666?

I obviously never had a pager. Maybe I should make up for lost time and get one now. Screw the text message!

396 friends
1587 reviews

3/12/2009 Kevin S. says:

This passes for journalism? Some florists goes overboard trying to please a reviewer, based on his perception of her "power" and influence? And this teaches us some compelling lessons about the corrupt influence of opinions on the web?

What is SF Weekly doing trying to moralize about anything?

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Yeah, what's the deal with the florist sending $1,000 worth of flowers to this girl? Excessive, no? How about you try to improve your business instead of attempting to win over one person who didn't like a bouquet?

396 friends
1587 reviews

3/12/2009 Kevin S. says:

Last interview I did about Yelp was for the LA Times...couple of years ago...I'm not sure I would talk about Yelp now for anyone, because in my experience the hacks are now stoking one another.

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

6 minutes ago Bewb Z. says:

58008 woot
----------------
*hands to ear, making the "call me" gesture*

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Robert "no cummupance for me!" H. says:

6 minutes ago Bewb Z. says:

58008 woot
----------------
*hands to ear, making the "call me" gesture*
************
I get it! Finally!

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Cliff B. says:

265 posts. That writer is clicking on Yelp Talk and orgasming all over herself.
--------------
dont worry, i'll make some more personal attacks about her after i finish this big-ass sandwich

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Oh, also, I kind of want to marry " formeryelper from Chicago " who posted on SF Weekly.

"He should stick his precious secret algorithm up into the hole where he keeps his head and fuck off into the sunset."

mmmm, now that's some class, right there.

324 friends
1410 reviews

3/12/2009 Uncle Fishbits Aeneas "My reviews are even more better" X. says:

1) yelp is an interesting force in the bay area (it isn't like this anywhere else is it? LA or NY?)
2) yelp is a great idea and people want to strip apart great ideas (whereas I usually am critical because I really want it to
succeed - my analogy of wanting to show my kid the review of the night his mom and I went out to dinner for the first
time. I am critical because I love it and I really wish HQ understood that about me)
3) draysenator makes me cry like one of the guys he talks about... but in a good way cry cry CRYYY like tears of hail.
4) the article was a non event
5) there is zero unethical behaviour from yelp, just people that don't understand what is going on.
6) Yelp needs to be much more transparent
7) The Elites, which is something I really really want to be, is not giving the best name to yelp
8) I like numbered lists
9) the reporter sounds like she was getting high on "investigative journalism" and this was neither inevstigative nor
journalism
10) All this yelp broohaha is a storm in a tea kettle.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/12/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

Cliff B. says:

265 posts. That writer is clicking on Yelp Talk and orgasming all over herself.
-------------
from what i've read and heard, that would not be a pretty sight. :vomits:

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

here's a pic of her. i didn't want to post it until i finished my saigon sandwich

http://www.uiowa.edu/j...

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

Dam, she looks like the kid from Mask.

147 friends
584 reviews

3/12/2009 Kai'ckul "big mac fries to go" M. says:

Andrew "elitist prick" T. says:

here's a pic of her. i didn't want to post it until i finished my saigon sandwich

http://www.uiowa.edu/j...
---------
i'd rather use my hand.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

omg robert lol. and im not joking, that's actually a GOOD pic of her...

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

Rocky Dennis!!

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/12/2009 gwynnie p. says:

now boys play nice.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/12/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

as a friend of mine just pointed out "way to be paid by the word."

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

here's a more recent pic of her. she is on a reality show on mtv

http://farm4.static.fl...

Elite '12
672 friends
146 reviews

3/12/2009 Joshua "Joshua" L. says:

That's not right, Andrew T

6 friends
4 reviews

3/12/2009 Raven S. says:

These comments about the writer's appearance are really contradicting the idea that Yelpers are a bunch of immature, entitled douches.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

robert, im still trying to get that don drysdale rookie card from rocky. the bastard wont budge...

3/12/2009 Robert H. says:

I think it's because he died in his sleep.

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

lol, i guess that explains the "not budging" part :P

186 friends
608 reviews

3/12/2009 Ben "Same As It Ever Was" P. says:

This is definitely inaccurate reporting. Witness the following, re: Yelp Elite Parties:

"While Stoppelman waxes poetic about the parties creating "the joy of community," the company has its incentives to keep prolific Yelpers -- who typically don't get paid for reviews -- enthused about the site. Without free content, Yelp is nothing. (To get the site off the ground in other cities, the company has paid a select number of "scouts" to, among other duties, write reviews.)"

And yet, as I creep near 500, I can't seem to get on the list at an Elite event to save my very soul.

3/12/2009 Clinton K. says:

That's because you're a douchebag, Ben.

186 friends
608 reviews

3/12/2009 Ben "Same As It Ever Was" P. says:

That doesn't stop them from inviting you.....

3/12/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/12/2009 KayJay .. says:

Um. I'm starting to become Mick and shit because I just don't understand this bullshit.

It's.Yelp.
It's.The.Internet.

Is it really this important? Next week SF Weekly is going to have an article about new ass cleaning techniques that outdo the bidet. Are going to be in a uproar about things that don't matter then, too?

YOUR ALL A BUNCH OF ASS FUCKIN' EGOTISTEECAL LAMETARDS. I CAN'T BELIEVE THE LEVEL OF ASS KISSING FAGGOTRY IN THIS THREAD. I HAVE YOUR IP'S AND BENCH PRESS MY OWN WEIGHT!!!!!

Sorry. Had a DreysEnator moment there I couldn't hold in.

0 friends
8 reviews

3/12/2009 Puddy C. says:

What a bunch of whiny little bitches....

Fair article, get over it.

I find it interesting that most of the people complaining are "Elites", you all have WAY too much time in your hands.

Since reviewing businesses gives all of you such a hard on, then try to at least do it with some form of intelligence.

You have to know what the fuck you're talking about. Fancy yourself a foodist? Learn about hospitality and what it takes to run a restaurant, don't just bitch because you had to wait for your table.

Stick to the review. If you got butt fucked by your uncle when you were 5 and now you get some form of therapy writing about your personal life mixed with reviewing, well then that is just lame.

Oh, is that the sound of your balls shrinking because your name didn't show up in the article?

What a pathetic hobby this is, empty . I feel dirty reading about you fuckers.

324 friends
1410 reviews

3/12/2009 Uncle Fishbits Aeneas "My reviews are even more better" X. says:

+1 Raven and Puddy

I repost my items 4, 7, and 9:

4) the article was a non event

7) The Elites, which is something I really really want to be, is not giving the best name to yelp

9) the reporter sounds like she was getting high on "investigative journalism" and this was neither inevstigative nor
journalism

302 friends
393 reviews

3/12/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Puddy, you're mean...

437 friends
446 reviews

3/13/2009 Kate "SADISTIC" K. says:

KayJay .. says:

Um. I'm starting to become Mick and shit because I just don't understand this bullshit.

It's.Yelp.
It's.The.Internet.

Is it really this important? Next week SF Weekly is going to have an article about new ass cleaning techniques that outdo the bidet. Are going to be in a uproar about things that don't matter then, too?

YOUR ALL A BUNCH OF ASS FUCKIN' EGOTISTEECAL LAMETARDS. I CAN'T BELIEVE THE LEVEL OF ASS KISSING FAGGOTRY IN THIS THREAD. I HAVE YOUR IP'S AND BENCH PRESS MY OWN WEIGHT!!!!!

Sorry. Had a DreysEnator moment there I couldn't hold in.
*****************
Dude - I came on Yelp Talk after a loooonnnngggg absence specifically to give KayJay a high five for this comment.
HI 5, KAYJAY!

Really it's only the Internet, people. And, also if you act like an asshole you can't be surprised when you get called out as an asshole. I mean did anyone see that Delfina Pizza is using One Star reviews on their employee t-shirts? HILARIOUS!
http://www.7x7.com/blo...

It is just the Internet.
You are just people.
Get over yourselves.

*poof*

0 friends
0 reviews

3/13/2009 Robert P. says:

Uh, too little too late -- I've discovered that the "journalist" completely mischaracterized the flowers situation with Panthea. She made it seem like extortion, which I bought hook, line, and sinker. But it wasn't that at all. Lauren Smiley is an ass, and I'm an ass for buying her schlock. My apologies to Panthea.

437 friends
446 reviews

3/13/2009 Kate "SADISTIC" K. says:

I will say this:
In the three + years I've been on Yelp I have had many businesses contact me thanking me either for a positive review or for a review which highlighted something I did not like about their business. Most business owners like the props AND also appreciate the constructive criticism. It helps them improve their business.

Granted there are many, many assholes on Yelp who write useless reviews; but, it is a shame that this writer seemed to have such a focused intent on painting Yelp and Yelpers as "all bad" that she glossed over businesses who have benefited from the feedback in Yelp reviews and didn't include commentary from Yelpers who are the creme de la creme of reviewers.

And, I'm sorry - Janney B. and Anna K. are not the creme de la creme. These narcissistic young women are examples of the types of people using Yelp and flooding Yelp events which have caused old skool Yelpers to stop participating in the community aspect of of the website.

Regardless of this - I don't think it was kosher to bring up eating disorders in that article. How was that relevant? I suppose you could make a case for it because the Yelpers in question made/make it public in their reviews... but, it just seemed petty.

(For the record: I take HUGE exception to my favorite Darin EVAH being slammed in this article.)

That's all I have to say on the topic.
Disappearing off Yelp Talk again... ta, ta!

376 friends
310 reviews

3/13/2009 Suge K. says:

"Granted there are many, many assholes on Yelp who write useless reviews; "

aw, kate, you remembered me??? how sweet!

437 friends
446 reviews

3/13/2009 Kate "SADISTIC" K. says:

Damn it! Suge you and KayJay have to stop saying funneh shit to lure me back to this thread.
*high five to Suge*

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Kate, seriously? Are we honestly linking to 7x7 now? As if they're a credible news source.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/13/2009 d "..." s. says:

Wait, KayJay has my IP address too?

I'm cool with that.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

I'm cool with your snark and gay sex, Darin. Just thought I'd put out there

497 friends
291 reviews

3/13/2009 d "..." s. says:

Like I said in the comment thread on The-website-that-dare-not-spea k-its-name...

I'd like to take this opportunity to throw down with Lauren Smiley and challenge her to a mud wrestling match...TO THE DEATH. SHIT IS ON.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

I think everyone on this website is narcissistic. I don't think it's fair to characterize them as that, I think overly trusting is more appropriate. They're in their 20s, not 30s, and not as bitter and jaded and naturally distrustful like myself.

As far as it just being a website, yeah, big deal, I get that. But now if you plug in their full name into google, that stupid article pops right up. I also take issue to a reporter roping these young women in like that and then destroying their character in print.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Darin, I think you should invite her to Heathers: The Musical and then challenge her in front of EVERYONE

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

soooo.... is it libel if I say that a certain someone looks like a huge scary tranny and when I first laid eyes on her I thought IT'S TRANNY TIME!? Just wondering.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

no PBC, it's not libel because you didn't write those thoughts down.

p.s. is it me?

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/13/2009 gwynnie p. says:

Agreed PBC, printing their full names was unconsionable if they did not give permission.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

it's slander if you say those thoughts. FACE Robert!

376 friends
310 reviews

3/13/2009 Suge K. says:

PBC... is it me? because you have to PM me to tell me if it was me. or sammy.

(please let it be sammy....)

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

It was totally me, wasn't it PBC? That's what Joshua L said too.

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

Darin "..." I. says:

Wait, KayJay has my IP address too?

I'm cool with that
-------------

I just really wanted to use the term "Level of Faggotry" because I find it greatly amusing.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

It might be me, but I'm a little on the short side to be described as "huge scary"

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

Princess Buttercup " " C. says:

I think everyone on this website is narcissistic. I don't think it's fair to characterize them as that, I think overly trusting is more appropriate. They're in their 20s, not 30s, and not as bitter and jaded and naturally distrustful like myself.

As far as it just being a website, yeah, big deal, I get that. But now if you plug in their full name into google, that stupid article pops right up. I also take issue to a reporter roping these young women in like that and then destroying their character in print.
------------

Agreed, but that's kinda what you get for sippin' on da Scorpian bowls and shit and letting the words "throw up" and "therapist" escape your lips as well as your first and last name if she happened to ask for it. "What's my full name you ask? Fuck you, hell no, bitch. "Hell no" is my middle name, btw."

376 friends
310 reviews

3/13/2009 Suge K. says:

was it darin?

534 friends
319 reviews

3/13/2009 X "Myque" Z. says:

Kate "SADISTIC" K. says:

And, I'm sorry - Janney B. and Anna K. are not the creme de la creme. These narcissistic young women are examples of the types of people using Yelp and flooding Yelp events which have caused old skool Yelpers to stop participating in the community aspect of of the website.

++++++

Wow. Really? Have you even met either of them? Or are you just reading their reviews and thread posts with your DSM-IV by your side.

376 friends
310 reviews

3/13/2009 Suge K. says:

your last name is bitch? i THOUGHT we were related!

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

honestly, what the fuck is wrong with the person who invented the scorpion bowl?

3/13/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

Suge K. says:

your last name is bitch? i THOUGHT we were related!
---------

Dood. Obviously! I mean you are black.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/13/2009 d "..." s. says:

Ugh, thanks for outing me on this thread. My last name really IS "Fuck You." You know we Japos do everything backwards.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

maybe... this person who I am thinking of, also moonlights as an extra for the traveling Rocky Horror Picture show. And it's not any of your WHORES.

KayJay, I know, I would have said the same thing, except my middle name is Bitch Please, and my last is Fuck-Off.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/13/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

Mike Z +1

Also, *slaps KayJay's ass*

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

you guys, I don't think anyone invited her, I think she just showed up... I could be wrong.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Please, let's keep this thread going. You guys are the only people I can stand right now. Who wants to get a scorpion bowl after work?

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

I would, Sammy, but I have a date with my therapist after work.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

lollers! samie and jessy, you should get up and pose on ur bed in ur undies and look all SEXYTIME now!!

I'm supposed to meet some friends tonight, but I'd rather stay in and drink wine. Alone.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/13/2009 d "..." s. says:

Toss in a round of beer pong and I'm in, Sammy.

Maybe.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

*speechless*

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Will u put my hair in pigtails PBC? It makes me feel so young ans sexyyy!

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Darin, who are you kidding? You're going to be home writing novella-length gay reviews tonight, aren't you?

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Toss Darin's salad and he's in, Sammy.

Maybe.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Careful Jess, that may make it onto a Delfina shirt

3/13/2009 Mr. Mmmmm m. says:

I'm braiding Darin's hair tonight. It's what we usually do on Fridays.

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Please, let's keep this thread going. You guys are the only people I can stand right now. Who wants to get a scorpion bowl after work?
----------------

Ya, I'm kinda diggin' this thread right now. The level of faggotry (TM Dreseynator) has greatly diminished. Except for my hetero-girl skeeving towards PBC.

110 friends
98 reviews

3/13/2009 Mark "don't Cry for me Arrrrr-gentina" A. says:

...

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Is coming on a thread to just leave an ellipsis kind of like farting on a thread?

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

it's kind of like waving, and then realizing you waved at the wrong person, so you decide to make that wave into a hair fixing gesture.

103 friends
227 reviews

3/13/2009 Mike "UranusDeMilo" W. says:

Per the article:

"David Gingrass at TWO won't go into details about past events at his restaurant, but he clearly holds a low opinion of the Elite: "There's the core of Yelp which is in their 20s and 30s that drink a lot and like to hook up," the chef says. "They're basically a bunch of self-centered twits." Another restaurant owner who catered an all-Yelp Christmas party says, "There was a lack of decorum and graciousness at that event. ... It was people that have never walked up to a manager in their life. I think it was people that were like, 'Hooray! My day is here!'" ".

Sad to say it, but I got the same feeling at the *one* elite event that I attended.

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

gwynnie p. says:

i notice the mover ONLY shows up when KayJay is around....otherwise, he's......um.........busy?
--------------

Can you guys hold me? I'm gettin' real skeered.

669 friends
5 reviews

3/13/2009 Princess Buttercup "Incredibly Good Looking" C. says:

oh. great.

good thing I don't have any suicidal tendencies right now.

3/13/2009 KayJay .. says:

True, but you may need something bubble wrapped.

3/13/2009 Jewsyka V. says:

Mike, can you not get someone to pin your tail back on?

3/13/2009 Mr. Mmmmm m. says:

good comment Mike - way to keep it light and funny.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Well, I'm sure anyone would be drunk and unruly if they could find the appetizer table.

497 friends
291 reviews

3/13/2009 d "..." s. says:

Please braid my hair into a Princess Leia bun, Mr. M. I want to make it harder for Smiley to pull on it.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/13/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

couldn't

701 friends
564 reviews

3/13/2009 Stanley "mayor of yelp" K. says:

Did anyone see this update from her????

http://blogs.sfweekly....

534 friends
319 reviews

3/13/2009 X "Myque" Z. says:

I love how she is such a busy reporter that she has time to compliment stalk some of her subjects and finds this gem from Nish: "Lauren Smiley needs to get laid."

302 friends
393 reviews

3/13/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

People have sent Janney e-compliments ranging from "I'm going to send [the reporter] doggy poop in a box" to one from Nish N., an employee of Yelp, saying "Lauren Smiley needs to get laid."
----------------
Nish, you the man!

302 friends
393 reviews

3/13/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

"Also... google her - she looks like the dude from the Real World..."
-Commenter on Eater SF.
----------------
she mis-quoted me

Elite '12
636 friends
659 reviews

3/13/2009 gwynnie p. says:

is this thread about me yet? because i am not afraid to OWN self centered twit. or twat.

and i definitely had a bonfire of the vanities moment last week eating freshly kilt hog at that elite event. but i'm fine with that too.

846 friends
147 reviews

3/13/2009 Joe "Father MC" G. says:

fuckin pisces narccissitsticccc!!

3/13/2009 Robert H. says:

Jeremy says:
Yelp reviews cannot be trusted, and neither can Jeremy Stoppelman. Searching for Yelp on Google News reveals story after story recently detailing how Yelp financially damages people with small companies in California, Chicago and New York. Check the comments sections in these articles for even more stories of reputations of people and small businesses damaged by misinformation spread by Jeremy Stoppleman and Yelp. Stoppelman gallingly claims to be doing a favor for small businesses while he tries to squeeze personal profits out of a machine that damages them with it's lies and it's "Secret Algorithm". Most recently he can be found on his blog crying that his poor unprofitable 31 Million dollar venture capital supported company (fueled by anonymous baseless attacks on people with small companies) is being criticized by "anonymous" (and therefore unreliable) small business owners. These are real people who work hard to make their businesses survive, in spite of the damage to their ability to make a living inflicted by Yelp in it's quest for massive profit.
============================== =
If you replace "yelp" with "illuminatti" it would make for a typical conspiracy theory.

3/13/2009

This Yelper's account has been closed.

3/13/2009 Robert H. says:

Do they still have the goat mascot on that site?

302 friends
393 reviews

3/13/2009 Andrew "Elitist Prick™" T. says:

Robert "no cummupance for me!" H. says:

Do they still have the goat mascot on that site?
--------------
yeah. lauren smiley

602 friends
1687 reviews

3/13/2009 John "Still a Pacifist" S. says:

It's a really typical SF Weekly feature article. The writer decides on a stance to take and then does interviews and twists her sources to fit her thesis. And because the Weekly absolutely must disagree with every political stance the Guardian takes, the Weekly's article on Yelp laments the power of ordinary people against poor poor poor businesses.

It reminded me a lot, actually, of the Weekly's article on social-service agencies in the Tenderloin. The basic thesis of that one was that the TL has too many homeless people already, that social-service agencies attract homeless people and drug addicts to the TL, and that there should be a limit on the number of social-service agencies in the TL because they affect the quality of life of the non-drug addicts and not homeless people who live there. My response would basically be why are you living in the TL in the first place? If you can't afford to live anywhere else, you probably benefit from the services.

Janney does coming off sounding kind of bad, but honestly, I think anyone would reads the SF Weekly already knows about Yelp. I thought the people who came off sounding the worst were the businesses that hosted past Elite events. Since there have only been so many holiday parties, I think that was a bad decision for that business owner to reveal his or her distaste for Yelpers.

My main question is Why did Janney and Anna reveal their last names? I know a bunch of people already probably know them, but I would assume that the quotient of stalkers, weirdos, and idiots trying to contact them would only increase.

23 friends
40 reviews

3/13/2009 Yeh F. says:

I like how they didn't approve my comment with a link to this thread.

Elite '12
3888 friends
953 reviews

3/13/2009 Keane L. says:

I should have agreed to the interview, just for drinks. I'm too boring to publish anyway.

183 friends
233 reviews

3/13/2009 Daniel "oh hai" C. says:

She mentioned my Yelp motto toward the end of the article, haha. Yeah, the article is a bit long, and she could have edited it a few more rounds. But it was entertaining (though most of us Yelpers have already heard everything in the article).

183 friends
233 reviews

3/13/2009 Daniel "oh hai" C. says:

I did see Nish's comment about Lauren... "Lauren needs to get laid" . This is not good for Yelp headquarters. This is not make investors happy, and makes Jeremy S look very bad at hiring good executive-level staff that properly represent Yelp.

Yelp staffers going around telling people that they should get laid. Now honestly, their investors are going to get a hold of that. And if heads roll, well... Nish gets exactly what he deserves.

398 friends
361 reviews

3/14/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

I'm truly amazed that people have such feelings of hate toward a group of people (yes, socially awkward internet geeks. Come on. Admit it folks) just trying to enjoy themselves through friendship and food.

The hostilities are really disturbing.

247 friends
53 reviews

3/14/2009 Lance "Lancehole" G. says:

*holds Sammy's hand*

It's OK here, you're amongst friends.

110 friends
98 reviews

3/14/2009 Mark "don't Cry for me Arrrrr-gentina" A. says:

...

343 friends
307 reviews

3/14/2009 Justin "L'écriture et la différence" C. says:

Check this out:

http://yelp.com vs. http://sfweekly.com vs. http://sfbg.com (using http://compete.com's "growth-velocity" setting)

http://siteanalytics.c...

722 friends
169 reviews

3/14/2009 Marian "Momsie" G. says:

I have met Darin I and Janney several times and I can only say I admire their sense of fun and delight in their company.

After reading Ms. Smiley's article, I think what she is really pissed off about is:

(1) No Beau
(2) You didn't let her have the whole Scorpion drink - you made her "share it".

398 friends
361 reviews

3/16/2009 Sammy "Off My Sassy" S. says:

Thanks Lance. I'm actually ok. I just find it so shocking that people care so much and so passionately about a mere review/networking site.

158 friends
248 reviews

3/18/2009 Nicolas "Pret a Manger" H. says:

My friend sent me this article yesterday, and I read it. And I was a little indifferent about what it said. I didn't feel some strong sense of pain for Yelp for being bashed, but I also didn't feel like I should be angered and protective for the business owners either. I think that Yelp is good and bad for everyone...businesses, reviews, and everyone in-between for so many reasons.

I do think that there are certain aspects about Yelp that I do not appreciate (1) some people who make reviews that are completely not helpful. For instance, I see quite often the 1-star review from people with the comment of "This place sucks." That's it...nothing more. I sit there and think..."Why does it suck? What made it bad? Your review only ruins the business without giving them a chance to improve from your feedback." It's comments like those that, regardless of the TOS that are placed on reviews, businesses should be allowed to have Yelp remove. (2) You also find many folks that make comments that don't seem logical. For instance, the review states "I love this place. Took my husband there for his birthday. Excellent food and service. Would recommend this place to everyone as well as come back again and again." This sort of glowing review is with a 3-star review. To me, 3-stars are average but that review is above average.

I always thought that Yelp was supposed to be about speaking your voice for the consumers, but it should also be about making your business better based on negative reviews by using it as feedback. It works for both ways. I do think that when you post a negative comment, and the business tries to "make it better" by giving you something, that is your choice to accept it or not. But once you accept it, that should be a time for you to give them another chance. I do wish that it would be possible for the business to reply to those negative reviews (almost like a thread or something that shows up on the business) that says what you did to make the experience better. That way, it shows that the business can show that it's trying to be compassionate and look after their customers.

Overall, I thought the article was pretty interesting and comical. Was I, as a Yelp Elite, offended? Not at all. I have nothing to take offense from, because I've never flaunted my status or asked for something because "I'm special on Yelp." I expect my experience to be just like everyone else's - a typical, normal experience that I will write fairly and unbiased.

Don't sweat the small stuff on this article folks. Most people are laughing about it at this point...

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