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Missives to corporate America | 1, 2, 3
Mr. Bob Ulrich, CEO
Dear Mr. Ulrich: I was delighted to learn that Target contributed to the restoration of the Washington Monument. The monument is oft derided by sophomoric intellectuals as a phallic paean to American colonialism. I believe our country, with its myriad of caverns, caves and canyons, affords enough sexual iconography to satisfy both genders. While in Maine last summer, several friends made a trip to the highest point in Acadia National Park to view the sunset. To my surprise, there were nearly a hundred sunset fans assembled with beach chairs and snacks. I didn't realize sunsets still had a following. While most public events, outdoor concerts, parades, etc. are underwritten or directly sponsored by a corporation, I thought this situation ripe with opportunity. Target might research sunset viewing locales throughout the United States and during the summer months, set up beach chairs and serve light refreshments -- all conveniently available at Target stores. This practice might be met with initial shock, orchestrated outrage and cynicism, but over time, the benefits will be incalculable. Instead of associating sunsets with the majestic beauty of nature, inspirational self-improvement greeting cards and quasi-spiritual epiphanies, people will associate sunsets with Target stores and products. The ubiquity of sunsets translates to millions of dollars in free publicity and advertising. You owe me big time.
Sincerely, Target responds:
September 13, 2000
Mr. Kenneth H. Cleaver Dear Mr. Cleaver: Thank you for sharing your comments regarding community relations programs with us. Mr. Bob Ulrich, Chairman and CEO -- Target Corporation, has received your idea and asked me to respond. On behalf of Mr. Ulrich and Target, I would like to thank you for taking the time to share your idea. Without comments and suggestions, we wouldn't know what our guests like about our stores or would like to see implemented in the future. While I cannot guarantee that your suggestion regarding a "sunset club" will be implemented, I will share your idea with our Community Relations team. Thank you again for taking the time to share your idea. We value your business and hope you will continue to shop at Target.
Sincerely,
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