Much like the stickers you get when yo give blood, you'll also get a sticker today when you vote, one thst says I VOTED. Typically, most people will ditch them after a while, but don't do that without checking: you might just be passing up some freebies.
We already know that Starbucks is giving away free coffee today. All you have to do is walk into a Starbucks and say "I voted," sticker or no, and you'll get a complimentary 12-ounce cup of drip coffee.
Ben and Jerrys is giving away free ice cream. Just bring your "I Voted" sticker to any participating Ben and Jerry’s location between 5 and 8 pm on November 4, 2008 for a free scoop.
There is one problem with these promotions, particularly if they require the "I voted" sticker as proof. Technically they are illegal, at least in some states.
Kate Folmar, spokeswoman for California Secretary of State Debra Bowen said:
"It's great that companies and groups want to encourage voting, but the law prohibits any commercialization of the vote. Our office, along with federal agencies, is getting the word out to businesses about the law."
However, as long as no proof is required (such as the "I voted" sticker, sadly), it's just fine, according to Folmar.
Despite any issues around the "I voted" sticker, it's still a good idea to keep it, as this is an obscure law and most will ignore it.
Additional rewards, and you can bet there are many local ones that we are unaware of:
Krispy Kreme: will give out star-shaped doughnuts to customers at select locations.
Groundwork coffee shops: today or Wednesday (!) will receive a free 12-ounce cup of drip coffee, or a dollar off any other coffee or tea in honor of election day.
Haddad’s Car Wash in Pitssburgh, Pennsylvania is giving away free washes to anybody with an “I Voted” sticker.
New Look Laser Tattoo Removal (no kidding) in Dallas is offering a free removal to anybody who will even "just say" that they voted.
Keep searching, and keep that "I voted" sticker!
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