Reader Brandon Fuller sends this picture of a blue-ribbon shortage. Fuller wonders if “a significant share of hosts only deem first place finishers to be worthy of recognition in party games.” Olympic silver medalists are often disappointed by their performance – does the same hold true for second-place finishers at children’s birthday parties?
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the pricing is correct. the 2nd and 3rd ribbons are only there to sell the 1st ribbons. they are never sold but the parent thinks that they are very clever (and sensitive) by buying only 1st ribbons (thus saving money) and by ensuring everyone comes first.
if they wanted to sell all three they could have called them: winner; gold; 1st
A third place ribbon or a second place ribbon would never sell on it’s own.
Everyone who buys a third place ribbon presumably also buys first and second. Everyone who buys a second place ribbon presumably must also buy a first place ribbon.
Retailers should either stock mostly first place and few third place ribbons, or perhaps sell them as a set.
A clever merchant would combine one of each in a sealed package and charge $3.99, doubling the net of most sales with a minimal increase in cost of goods.
I am tremendously puzzled why kids have birthday parties before puberty or consent or HS graduation or ever. I think the Jehovah’s Witnesses have got it right. on this point.
I think people need to have more parties, but I think a three year-old’s birthday is much of a reason.
Congratulations, 2nd place, you–*almost* won. Of all the losers, you came in first, in that group. You’re the number one loser. No one lost ahead of you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAzzCeSXeuY
I’ll say it again…if you’re not first, you’re last.
maybe they just give out first place ribbons to everyone. keep there self esteems high, and give them false praise.
There is a strong opinion that for children, competition is inappropriate, (especially at fun events like parties).
So if ribbons are going to be awarded, everyone gets one.