"No Solicitors"

This is a posting of a letter to the editor of the Arizona Republic newspaper. I include it here simply because telemarketers, door-to-door sales men, junk mail and spam are pet peeves of mine.

Not that I have anything against the people themselves, they are after all, just trying to make a living too. But come on, I put the sign on my door so they can know I am not interested before we waste each other's time.

What does a "No Solicitors" sign on my front door mean? I was always under the impression that it meant I didn't wish to be disturbed by persons selling things or subscriptions. Or, persons asking for contributions to their charities or organizations.

I must have been mistaken, because since I have placed this sign on my door I have had several persons come to my door, asking for money or attempting to sell me something I do not want. Including some young man peddling subscriptions for the "Arizona Republic" newspaper. A most persistent young man, who had to be told three times that I was not interested in purchasing a subscription, Who persisted in explaining to me the plan details and offers. Who persisted in explaining how this plan was "just $20.00 and it helps me for college."

So, I put it to you Mr. /Ms Editor: what does a "No Solicitors" sign mean?

NOTE: As of this writing, no reply from the editor.