rockin' rye hate mail tops this list

I've had lots of stuff to write about lately, but little time and leftover energy to get it done. I don't have this prioritized, but I'm going to intersperse emails I have received with my comments and ramblings to see where that gets me.

Composite Rockin' Rye Email:

@#$#@$$)*(*&^'n Dave:

I used to think you were pretty cool. I used to think you knew what you were doing, and that you would never let me down. I thought you left screwing people over behind when you walked out those prison gates.
But you hooked me with the Rockin' Rye bread, and then you pulled the rug out. you might as well have robbed me, or hit me with a baseball bat--the kind of things you used to be known for.
I would've given you the shirt off my back, but if I ever see you in my neighborhood, I'm calling the cops.
By the way, you don't scare me. I've seen you in person and you're much smaller than the cartoon on the bread bag.

Sincerely your worst nightmare,

(somebody who loves Rockin' Rye and hates you)

My best response:

I honestly didn't foresee the effect discontinuing Rockin' Rye would have on my baker/customer relationship. If it was entirely in my hands, I would bring it back to the shelves immediately. The biggest problem is that places like New Seasons would have to invite it back to their shelves. I don't think there has been enough of a storm to get their attention.

For those who don't know, Rockin' Rye and Whole Grain Spelt are still available at Portland, Vancouver, Beaverton, Milwaukie, Troutdale, and Gresham Farmers' Markets, as well as at NatureBake's Retail Outlet.

Peace Bombs Get Bags

These are going crazy at the farmers' markets, but no stores have them yet. We're still trying to perfect a plan for merchandising them in stores. The Oregonian's Food Day editor wrote a little tidbit on them a couple of weeks ago in her "Market Basket" column:

"Sprouting up Dave's Killer Bread adds two loaves made with sprouted wheat paste instead of flour and water. Flourless Sprouted Wheat Bread is packed with tons of seeds and has a moist and chewy texture; $4.89 for a 25-ounce loaf at New Seasons, Zupan's and Fred Meyer Nutrition Centers. Peace Bomb is like a baguette but with a denser texture and firmer crust; $3 for a 12-ounce baguette or two for $5 at the Portland Farmers Markets only. Dave's entire line is certified USDA organic."



I can't get enough of these:


Dave,
I recently read about your bread in an article in The Oregonian. It brought tears to my eyes (and not just because I LOVE bread), but because society tends to create the belief that people don't change. My mom has been battling drug addiction for nearly thirty years. My father served time in prison. Out of the two, my dad completely turned his life around. And after reading your story, I realized how intolerant I can be of people who I think will never change. Of course I had to go out and buy your Killer Bread. Wow! I love it and think of the obstacles you've had to overcome in your life to get to this point. In sum, YOU ROCK! Keep up the good work.
Signed,
A newly transformed Dave's Killer Bread Fan



Hi Dave...I just received your newsletter and noticed your picture on the truck. Looked familiar and sure enough if it isn't the picture I chose when you were picking one out, it sure is close. I have attached the two pictures from my photo file that I chose of you. Glad you are having such a great response!

You certainly are a great example of what someone can do with there life even when they have really messed up along the way. You deserve a congratulations on your success and all those who support you.

You have given such an open, candid, honest testimony regarding your life struggles, do you ever work with people and share your story personally? Keep your positive attitude and cherish the new chance you have been given.

I work with people with addictions and low self-esteem daily and I encourage them to keep trying and never give up. Your story is an inspiration and a reminder to me that success is possible.



Hey Dave,
Alas, I live in Eugene and can't make it up to Portland to see this cinnamon pastry brilliance myself, but I did have a thought about a name. To me, the term "Peace bomb" is an oxymoron. I do think I understand where you're going with it and was wondering whether maybe "Love Buns" (is that too anatomical-sounding?) or "Peace Pods" or "Cinndulgence"?

I like how involved you are with the public. I think that, not only is that the most effective type of marketing, it makes people happy to know that even the world of commerce is made up of real people. That is too easily lost when we just go to the market and pick up our item and don't realize how many people touched that thing in order that we may have the benefit of it. Thank you. I think you are doing a wonderful thing. (And your bread is fantastic--keeps getting better)

All the best,
(name withheld)




[I've got to close for now. I've got a lot more to write about, so hopefully I'll find the time soon--dave]