Today’s batch of burning questions, my smart-aleck answers and the real deal:
Question: A friend recently went to the Biltmore Estate and walked from the parking lots to the house and got ready to go in. But a security guard told her no purses were allowed inside. There is a sign at the house that states this, but there aren’t any in the parking lots. Why doesn’t the estate put some signage up in parking lots so people don’t walk all the way to the house and then have to walk back or take a shuttle to drop off their purse? Also, why aren’t purses allowed inside? And when did this start?
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My answer: I once saw a woman walk out of that house with a couch, six library books and a set of candlesticks in her purse. Seriously, the purse sizes in this country are out of hand.
Real answer: "Since we updated our policies about bags inside Biltmore House, we have placed signage in our parking areas to ensure that guests make arrangements for their purses and bags before they arrive at Biltmore House," said LeeAnn Donnelly, estate spokeswoman. "We continue to evaluate on-site guest communications, and add signage as necessary."
Donnelly had a possible explanation for this guest's experience.
"Some lots have or are just about to receive new signage, so it’s possible this guest may have parked in a lot that lacked signage on the day of their visit," Donnelly said. "We apologize for the inconvenience to this guest. That said, all of our important policies, including our bag policy, are referenced on our website, during the ticket purchase process, and in pre-visit emails that guests receive."
I addressed Biltmore's increased security in August 2019," including screenings at the entrances to buildings. Back then, Donnelly noted: "As a destination with more than 1.5 million guests each year, we are following the lead of other attractions, museums and arenas of our size who have similar measures in place. It is becoming a very common part of an attraction entry experience."
Regarding bags, Donnelly said the estate has followed many other attractions across the country and adopted certain policies regarding bags inside structures.
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"The safety of our guests and team members is our top priority," Donnelly said. "For entry into Biltmore House, all bags, packages, and boxes will be inspected by security personnel."
The estate's most recent update was elimination of handling guests' items, part of COVID-19 safety measures.
"A clear bag allows a visual inspection," Donnelly explained.
Here's the rule: Guests may bring personal items in clear bags no larger than 12”x 6”x 12", in sealable plastic storage bags no larger than one gallon, or in bags/clutches no larger than 4.5”x 6.5.”
"If your bag does not meet these requirements, we ask that you leave it in your vehicle or ask about storage options," Donnelly said. "Biltmore has a limited supply of lockers for this purpose."
The estate has a limited supply of complimentary plastic bags available, but it recommends bringing your own bag, leaving personal items in your vehicle, or asking about storage options. Donnelly noted that exceptions are made for medical items after inspection.
Also, the estate reserves the right to refuse admission for any bag, parcel, or other item. Weapons are prohibited.
Question: I understand the Biltmore Estate is selling ground beef, and I heard it was $99 a pound. That cannot be right. Can you check on this?
My answer: Before this new purse policy went into effect, my wife stuffed $2,300 worth of ground chuck into her handbag during our last visit to the estate.
Real answer: No, that dollar figure is not correct.
"It is correct that Biltmore is selling beef products through its new 'Biltmore Grown' line at Biltmore Shop, the estate’s online retail company," Donnelly said. "Biltmore Grown features beef packages with multiple meat cuts. However, the pricing your reader mentions is not correct."
More: Answer Man: Biltmore Estate had a 'manure war?' And more on its 'Market Garden'
Pricing of the beef package is $99.99 for 10 packages of beef that are 1 pound per package, or 10 pounds total. For more information, visit https://ift.tt/33joAUE
Donnelly said Biltmore’s director of agriculture, Kyle Mayberry, oversees the beef program.
"It features pasture-based angus beef, meaning the herd lives on pasture at all times and eats a ration of grain for the best quality in marbling and taste," Donnelly said, adding the beef is free of added hormones.
This is the opinion of John Boyle. To submit a question, contact him at 232-5847 or jboyle@citizen-times.com.
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The Link LonkOctober 01, 2020 at 04:02PM
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Answer Man: Biltmore Estate bans purses? Sells beef for $99 a pound? - Citizen Times
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