I had a customer in the store on Saturday that was determined to engage me in a political discussion, i.e., Presidential Candidates, and I deflected his questions as best I could. Finally he hit me point blank with "Why are you avoiding this topic? Are you a Republican or a Democrat. I'm curious?"

My response was as it has been for several years "I don't discuss politics, social issues or religion in the store with customers, its bad business. I stand to alienate at least half my customer base for expressing my opinion, and the half that agree with me won't make up the purchases of the half that walks away if they don't like what they hear."

He thought about that briefly and said "Makes sense" and that was that.

Being in Washington DC I have had many Senators, Congressmen and their Aides and Staff shop in my store. Even sold 79 pieces of Hancock and Moore to The White House in 1997. The Keeping Room serves both parties equally!