UPDATE:
I called and placed an order, asked for free shipping. they said they'd make a request for it and let me know, but that my card wouldn't be charged until despatched...then they charged my card including shipping. i called them and said i told you to not charge my card until i was told if i got free shipping or not, and he refunded me the free shipping.
I DID stop by the 7th ave store, which is closed due to fire damage FYI. My friend had the actual catalog with the offer so i went in the store with that and got another shirt/tie.