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How to Use Email Spam to One's Advantage

Melanie and I are both former corporate marketing executives.  We both ran email marketing campaigns for our companies.  And we're both pretty well educated on permission marketing.  You don't get any emails from us that you haven't specifically asked for.  And if you change your mind, you can unsuscribe with a press of a button and *poof* you're off the list.

While you don't get spam from us, there's a lot of spam out there and some of it gets through even the best filters.  We normally get a few emails each day that sneak past our filters.

t's not often that you get spam you can use.  It's annoying.  So it's all the more gratifying when you get something like the spam below (after the break), which you can use to your advantage.

I am pleased to announce that Aldo Coffee Company. has been selected for the 2009 Best of Pittsburgh Award in the Coffee Shops category by the US Commerce Association. Image blocked.

In recognition of your achievement, a 2009 Best of Pittsburgh Award has been designed for display at your place of business. You may arrange to have your award sent directly to Aldo Coffee Company. by following the simple steps on the 2009 Best of Pittsburgh Award order form. Simply copy and paste this link into your browser to receive your award:
https://www.us-ca.org/

Each year, the US Commerce Association (USCA) identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Also, a copy of the press release publicizing the selection of Aldo Coffee Company. has been posted on our website. The USCA hereby grants Aldo Coffee Company. a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, distribute, and display this press release in any media formats and through any media channels.

An Award Code has been assigned to your company that can be used on our website for quick access to your award information and press release.

Your Award Code is: ----------------

Sincerely,

Ashley Carter
Selection Committee Chair
US Commerce Association


So thanks for that Google-friendly third party endorsement, Ashley.  We appreciate it.

Now take us off your list.

July 30, 2009 |

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  • Hey there... if you're looking for our physical store, we closed as of November 15, 2011. The space is under new ownership as Orbis Caffe, still serving delicious coffee and food with great service. We hope you'll give them a try. For info on Melanie and Rich, follow @aldo_mel or @richwesterfield or visit accidentalroaster.com.
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